Gov. Kelly Ayotte lifted the statewide burn ban Wednesday, and within moments of finding out, Lakes Region fire departments have already received permit requests from residents who have been anxiously waiting to burn brush piles.

“We have had people see our Facebook post and the news that is coming out, and have called to make sure their permit is still valid,” Laconia Deputy Fire Chief Louis Loutrel said Wednesday.

The burn ban had been in effect since Sept. 22, following what state leaders described as the driest summer since 1895. Ayotte issued a proclamation lifting the ban on Wednesday morning, which was approved by the Executive Council.

“This brief outdoor burn ban helped keep our great outdoors safe during a busy time for camping and hiking,” said Ayotte. “I want to thank Granit

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