Fire Safety

Today's Campfire Status

Walnut Mountain observes the Georgia Forestry Commission fire danger and class day system. Always check before burning — fire conditions can change quickly in North Georgia.

Checking campfire status…

Fetching current fire danger level from Georgia Forestry Commission data.

Violations Carry Significant Fines

Burning wood on a no-campfire day is a violation of Georgia Forestry Commission regulations and may result in substantial penalties.

Short-term rental occupants may be held liable for any fines assessed as a result of a violation occurring on the property during their stay.

How the Fire Status System Works

The campfire status is determined by the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) fire danger rating for Gilmer County. The GFC assigns daily fire danger levels based on weather conditions — temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and drought index.

Fire Danger Level	Class Day	Campfires at Walnut Mountain
Low	Class I	Allowed
Moderate	Class II	Allowed
Lower High	Class III (Lower)	Allowed
High	Class III	Not Allowed
Upper High	Class III (Upper)	Not Allowed
Very High	Class IV	Not Allowed
Extreme	Class V	Not Allowed

Campfire Rules at Walnut Mountain

Non-wood-burning fires (propane, gas, etc.) are always permitted regardless of the daily campfire status. The fire danger restrictions and "Not Allowed" designation apply to wood-burning fires only.

Always check the current fire status before lighting any wood-burning fire, even when campfires are generally allowed.

Never leave a campfire unattended. Extinguish completely before leaving the area.

Keep campfires in designated fire rings or fire pits away from trees, brush, and structures.

Keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby at all times.

Conditions can change rapidly — if wind picks up or conditions dry out, extinguish your fire.

Burn bans may be imposed by the Georgia Forestry Commission, Gilmer County, or the State of Georgia at any time — status on this page reflects current information.

Wood smoke regulations may also apply during certain air quality events.

When in doubt — do not burn.

Walnut Mountain is a Firewise USA Community

Walnut Mountain has been a designated Firewise USA community since 2009. We are committed to reducing wildfire risk through community education, defensible space practices, and fire-safe community planning.

Learn about our Firewise program →

Official Sources

Georgia Forestry Commission →GFC Fire Danger Map →