Burning restrictions imposed by Georgia’s rules for Air Quality Control will be lifted Oct. 1.

Provided weather conditions are such that burning can be done safely, the Georgia Forestry Commission will begin issuing burning permits at that time.

Daily burn permits will be available for residents burning small leaf or brush piles 6 feet by 6 feet or smaller around their homes.

Landowners may log on to www.gatrees.org, select the online permit section and fill in required information to receive a permit, or call the automated system at (877) 652-2876.

Larger burns are required to be 1,000 feet from any occupied dwelling in a predominately residential area. Permits for larger burns may be obtained by calling (706) 216-2713.

The only material for which a burn permit can be issued is natural vegetation such as leaves, brush, logs and stumps.

In Georgia, nearly 50 percent of wildfires are a result of careless burning.

A few simple precautions can reduce the risk of a fire escaping control.

• Don’t burn on dry or windy days.

• Clear an area around your burn down to dirt so the fire can’t easily spread.

• Have a water hose and hand tools available.

• Stay with your fire until it is completely out.

For more information or assistance with burning in Dawson or Forsyth counties, call the Georgia Forestry Commission at (706) 216-2713.