Rocky Flats fire caused by non-permitted burning; individual responsible cited

SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) - On Tuesday, Perrin Anderson, the Sevier County Assistant Mayor for Governmental Affairs, stated the large brush fire that affected over 170 acres was caused by non-permitted debris burning.

As a result, the individual responsible was cited by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Crime Unit, officials said.

The brush fire near Youngblood Way and Rocky Flats Road was first Saturday. According to the Tennessee Division of Forestry, the fire affected 177 acres and was officially 100% contained Monday.

A Forestry spokesperson said two cabins were evacuated as of 2:25 p.m. Saturday.

Those in the area were urged to be cautious as firefighters worked to contain the fire.

“The public should avoid areas impacted by the fire,” officials said. “Fire crews....request residents remain prepared to take action if threatened by the fire.”

In addition, emergency personnel asked people to refrain from open debris burning and to extinguish any active piles burning. All drones were also asked to be grounded, Cocke County Emergency Management Agency officials said.

Some parts of Sevier County were in a moderate drought, with other elevations having abnormally dry conditions, in addition to the wind in the area.

Residents in the area may continue to see and smell smoke as crews stay on the scene. In total, state, as well as, Cocke and Sevier County agencies responded to the fire.

The Sevier County Emergency Management Agency shared tips on how to be safe while burning:

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