summary
Introduced
01/21/2025
01/21/2025
In Committee
03/25/2025
03/25/2025
Crossed Over
02/05/2025
02/05/2025
Passed
04/02/2025
04/02/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
04/30/2025
04/30/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Prescribed burning. Defines "prescribed burn". Provides for the following: (1) Requirements to be met before a person conducts a prescribed burning. (2) That a certified prescribed burn manager and a completed prescribed burn plan must be present during a prescribed burning. (3) Certain civil liability immunities related to conducting a prescribed burn and the prescribed burn certification program. (4) Under certain conditions, exemption of prescribed burning from certain local regulations. (5) That a prescribed burning and the smoke produced by the prescribed burning do not constitute a nuisance. (6) That the division of forestry shall administer the training and certification program for prescribed burning. Limits damages for injuries or losses as result of a prescribed burn to actual damages.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework for prescribed burning in Indiana, which is defined as the planned application of fire to naturally occurring vegetation for land management purposes such as forestry, fuel reduction, wildlife habitat improvement, and ecosystem management. The bill requires that before conducting a prescribed burn, a person must obtain written landowner consent, prepare a prescribed burn plan approved by a certified prescribed burn manager, and notify local fire and emergency services at least 24 hours in advance. During the burn, a certified prescribed burn manager must be on-site with a copy of the burn plan. The bill provides civil liability immunities for certified prescribed burn managers, landowners, and their agents who follow the prescribed procedures, with exceptions for negligence or willful misconduct. Additionally, the bill exempts properly conducted prescribed burns from local burning prohibitions, declares that such burns do not constitute a nuisance, and limits damages to actual losses. The division of forestry will be responsible for administering the prescribed burn certification program and establishing standards for burn plans, with the law set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (5)
Last Action
Public Law 124 (on 04/30/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...