LAPLACE — St. John the Baptist Parish’s Public Safety Department initiated preparations for bonfire season by requesting authorization to enter into an agreement with the Pontchartrain Levee District.

The 2015 Christmas Bonfire Program allows for the construction of Christmas bonfires on the Mississippi River Levee in the Pontchartrain Levee District.

The Public Safety Department began issuing permits Nov. 16 for bonfires on the East and West Banks of the parish.

Participants must pick up an application from the Emergency Operations Center at 1801 W. Airline Hwy. in LaPlace. The form must be returned with proper documentation and permitting fees.