Louisana

La R.S. §3:17. Enacted: 1993; Last updated: 1993.

Summary: Prescribed burning is the controlled application of fire to natural vegetation and sugarcane following appropriate precautionary measures that confine the fire to a predetermined area to accomplish the objectives of the burn.  Prescribed burning is beneficial and a property right when conducted according to requirements. Proper training is important. Prescribed burns are conducted only with written permission and must have a certified burn manager present from ignition to completion. No one conducting a prescribed burn pursuant to laws and regulations will be liable for damage caused by the fire or smoke unless negligence is proven.

La R.S. §14:204. Enacted: NA; Last updated: NA.

Summary: Fire-raising on lands of another by criminal negligence includes: 1) setting fire to any grass, leaves, brush or debris on one’s own land and allowing fire to spread to lands of another, 2) starting a campfire without exercising sufficient precautions to prevent the fire from spreading, 3) setting fire to grass, leaves, brush or debris by casting aside a lighted match, cigarette or cigar, and 4) burning land which adjoins another’s woodlands within organized fire protection area without written notice of intention to burn, description of property and date.   Penalties for violation include a maximum fine of $300 or 30 days imprisonment or both.

La R.S. §14:206. Enacted: NA; Last updated: NA.

Summary: Penalties for defacing fire warning signs or injuring, destroying or removing fire suppression, reporting or detection equipment include a maximum fine of $500 or 6 months imprisonment or both.

La R.S. §33:1971. Enacted: 1979; Last updated: 2001.

Summary: The ranking fire protection officer from the jurisdiction dispatched to the scene of a fire shall have command.  In the case of a forest fire, grass fire or wildland fire, the ranking forestry officer on the scene shall have equal authority with the ranking fire department officer.  Violation of this authority shall constitute fire fighting interference under 14:206.

§La R.S. 40:1563.1. Enacted: 1970; Last updated: 2003.

Summary: The fire marshal, first assistant fire marshal, deputy fire marshals and certified local authority and state or municipal arson investigators have authority to investigate and make arrests in the case of arson, fire-raising, fire prevention interference, and other specified violations and seize contraband.  The chief of each of these units may be authorized to carry and use firearms.

§La R.S. 56:107. Enacted: NA; Last updated: NA.

Summary: Setting fire to wild woodland, marshland or prairie is prohibited except when done on one’s own land to clear or prepare enclosed land for agricultural or pastoral purpose or improving food for wildlife.  This shall be done only under permit and supervision of wildlife agency and authorized burning may not be done during wild bird breeding season.