A new state law that goes into effect Wednesday requires a burn permit for bonfires.

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry says the law will apply to fires that exceed 3 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter that are not for debris disposal.

Permits can be obtained free of charge at maineburnpermit.com.

State officials say the law is intended to mitigate the risk of fires getting out of control and leading to wildfires.