RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia has entered spring fire season, ushering in the statewide spring burning law, which only allows fires to be burned at certain times of day.
A spokesperson for the Department of Forestry said the law prohibits outdoor burning before 4 p.m. when the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass and will be in effect from Feb. 15 through April 30.
Violation of the burning law is a class 3 misdemeanor and is punishable with a fine of up to $500. Those who allow a fire to spread may be liable for suppression costs and any property damage.
The burning law applies to all open-air fires, including debris burning, campfires and charcoal grills like those found in park settings. The law does not apply to charcoal or gas-fired barbecue grills, according to the department. Some exceptions to the law are made for campfires at Virginia State Parks.
“Although Virginia also has a wildfire season in the fall, more than 60 percent of the state’s annual average of 700 wildfires occur in the spring. Rising temperatures, dry and windy weather, and abundant fuels such as frost-killed vegetation and dead leaves, increase the potential for wildfires and make them harder to extinguish,” the spokesperson said.
In addition to the statewide 4 p.m. burning law, individual cities and counties may have specific burn laws, bans or restrictions. The department advises residents to check with local officials before burning.
The department urges you to keep the following things in mind this spring fire season:
- Burning is allowed between 4 p.m. and midnight as long as proper precautions are taken
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Avoid burning during dry and windy conditions
- No fire may be started, and no fuels can be added to a fire after midnight
- Have a shovel, rake and a charged hose on hand to control the fire
- Call 911 if a fire escapes your control
For more information, visit the Department of Forestry’s website.
