Various perceptions of prescribed burning of woodlands are described. Most states prohibit setting fire to woodlands except under specific circumstances. Requirements for authorization to burn vary from state to state. The extent of restriction appears to be inversely proportional to amount of fire use, with little or not burning done in states having the strictest fire laws. However, under the 1970 Clean Air Act, individual states are required to develop regulations that will at least maintain national standards for air quality. 25 references.