The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5152 seeks to amend existing wildfire prevention laws in Connecticut by allowing open burning of brush on residential properties, contingent upon obtaining a permit from the local open burning official. The bill outlines specific conditions under which open burning is prohibited, such as when air quality standards may be exceeded or when there is a high or extreme forest fire danger. It also introduces provisions for open burning for purposes like fire-training exercises and agricultural activities, again requiring permits. Additionally, municipalities are granted the authority to regulate or ban open burning within their jurisdictions.

The bill further modifies the responsibilities of the State Forest Fire Warden, enabling the prohibition of open flames on lands controlled by the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection when necessary. It establishes a compensation framework for district and deputy fire wardens and volunteer fire companies, and outlines the process for the Warden to take direct control of firefighting efforts during declared emergencies. The Governor's powers are also enhanced, allowing for the proclamation of closures of woodland and brush land during hazardous conditions, with penalties for violations. The bill repeals and substitutes several sections of the general statutes to implement these changes, with the new provisions set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 23-36, 23-39, 23-50