In 2014, the Cities of Merriam and Overland Park began a unique partnership. The Overland Park Fire Department gave Merriam a paramedic and medical vehicle, and, in return, Merriam provided fire coverage for the northern-most parts of Overland Park.
Just a few years later, Merriam’s fire department became part of the Overland Park Fire Department. The City of Merriam owns the fire station and all fire equipment for use by Overland Park's firefighters. All trucks, equipment, and uniforms are marked in a manner that identifies both Merriam Fire and Overland Park Fire departments.
The unique partnership saves both cities money. Merriam officials estimate it may save $500,000 over the course of the 10-year contract. Overland Park fire officials estimate the arrangement will save their city $120,000 per year, in contract costs – all while maintaining elevated service protections in both locations.
For more information about the Overland Park Fire Department and the services they provide, visit opkansas.org or call 913-888-6066.
Burn Permits
All burn permits within the City of Merriam are issued by the Overland Park Fire Department. The fire department will review your permit request. First-time requests require an on-site visit from a fire inspector, who will call to schedule the inspection.
Open Burning Guidelines
Open burn permits require that the fire:
- Be no larger than 3–5 feet wide and 5 feet tall.
- Be at least 50 feet away from combustible materials, such as buildings, fences, and roadways.
- Be attended at all times, with a way to extinguish the fire—like a garden hose—nearby.
- Burn only between dawn and dusk, and be fully extinguished by dusk.
Complaints from nearby residents may result in the fire being extinguished. Violating burn permit guidelines may lead to a $500 fine and the loss of future burn permit privileges.
Warnings
Burning is not allowed when winds exceed 15 miles per hour. Red flag or burn ban warnings apply to all types of burning, including portable fire pits, recreational fires and permitted open burns.
Learn More or Apply for a Burn Permit