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Fire Prevention, Investigation & Safety

Overview

The Fire Prevention Bureau consists of 3 members led by the Fire Marshal. The Prevention Bureau is responsible for fire code enforcement, fire investigation, and public fire safety education.

The Prevention Bureau conducts periodic fire and life safety inspections of primarily commercial buildings in the city in accordance with the International Fire Code, conducts fire cause and origin investigations, and provides public fire safety education and training for the community.

Burning in the City of Helena

Fire Restrictions

Fire restrictions will be advertised and/or posted for public information pursuant to City Ordinance 3303 adopted on January 9, 2023.

Open Burning

Open burning is the burning of a bonfire, rubbish fire or other fire in an outdoor location where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill or barbecue pit. Open burning is not allowed without permit. General permit requirements consist of adequate separation distances, adequate water or fire suppression sources, weather conditions, and proper supervision. Permits are only issued for purposes of fuel mitigation by official agencies. Residents need to dispose of fire fuel through means other than burning.

Lewis and Clark County residents can obtain an open burn permit using the online system.

County Burn Permit

Fireworks

Fireworks use is prohibited within the City of Helena. See Title 3, Chapter 9, of City Code for specifics. Commercial firework displays are allowed with permit. Commercial displays need to meet all the requirements of the fire code and NFPA 1123.

Application for Fireworks Permit

Education

We provide fire and life-safety education for all ages. The majority of our public education programs consist of: Fire Prevention Week activities, Hotel/Motel Safety Classes, Food Service Safety Classes, and Fire Extinguisher Classes. The department is also actively developing public service announcement videos, which you can view below.