Does your property qualify for the Prescribed Burn Cost-Share Program?

The Prescribed Burn Cost-Share Program provides a tool for residents with healthy woodlands and/or prairies to maintain these areas using fire. Prescribed burn management helps improve the health of a woodland or prairie by removing duff, replenishing the soil with nutrients, and by allowing native plants to thrive.

While a Prescribed Burn is typically scheduled for early spring (March-April) or late fall (November-December), obtaining a Burn Permit from the STATE OF IL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) may take up to three months.  On top of that, weather conditions, such as temperature, humidity, wind and rain, may leave only a few weeks during which your Prescribed Burn can take place. 

If you're interested in taking advantage of this Cost-Share Program, be sure to plan ahead and schedule your Ecological Consultation with the Village Ecologist to confirm whether your property qualifies. Prescribed burns are typically done on lots with high quality woodlands that have been restored and are best implemented every three years. Cost for a typical burn ranges from $1,500-$2,500 with the Village matching 50% of the cost.