Northwest Iowa (KICD)– Early Spring-like conditions and ongoing dryness concerns have led to two local counties going into a burn ban.

Fire chiefs from Emmet and Palo Alto Counties requested the bans from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, both of which were granted Monday and will remain in place until local officials deem conditions have improved to a point that open burning is again safe.

While under a burn ban open burning is prohibited except in cases in which a permit has been acquired from fire officials. Outdoor fireplaces and grills can still be used as long as they are properly supervised.

For more information on local burning restrictions, contact your local fire department.