A California burn ban is back.
Hot weather and dry conditions caused California Fire Department Chief Brad Friedmeyer to prohibit burning inside California city limits. He said the ban will last until a substantial rainfall allows it to be safely lifted.
"Yes, it looks green out there, but it's still dry underneath," Friedmeyer said.
Although the ban only affects California, Friedmeyer urges everyone in the area to refrain from burning until conditions improve.
To report a violation, he said to call 911. The California Police Department can also be reached at its non-emergency number, 573-796-2818. Friedmeyer said the police department can issue citations to violators in city limits.
Update (Aug. 28): The California Fire Department posted on its Facebook page that the burn ban has been lifted. The post urges residents to use "common sense" when burning, and to check for holes or other damage before using a burn barrel.