Virginia Burn restrictions take effect until April, learn more
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – The Virginia Department of Forestry is advising residents of the 4 p.m. Burning Law going into effect on Saturday.
The statewide burn ban goes into effect every year from February 15 through April 30. Some locations have different rules and regulations, and it is important to check with your locality before burning outdoors.
This law bans open-air burning before 4 p.m. if the fire is 300 feet of dry grass or wooded areas. Burning is allowed after 4 p.m. to midnight as long as residents take precautionary measures and attend to the fire at all times.
Violation of the 4 p.m. burning law is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor with a fine of $500.
Debris is the number one cause of wildfires followed by 'arson' fires. The 4 p.m. Burning Law was adopted in the 1940s to reduce the number of wildfires that occur each spring.
Virginia State Parks prepare campground reopening, burning restrictions in effect
Virginia has seen an increase in fires within the region. During late winter and early spring, fires are more likely to occur due to increased winds, lower humidity, and dry tree leaves. After 4 p.m. winds usually trend down, and humidity levels rise.
This law also applies to open-air burning meaning any outdoor fire not covered or contained within a non-flammable barrier and the fire does not go through a chimney. A campfire is an example of an open-air fire; however, they must fit the criteria including having a ring of rocks, cinderblocks, metal material, or a device to cover 1/4 of an inch.
Flammable materials need to be removed from a 20-foot area around the fire.
The law does not apply to charcoal or gas-fired grills, but charcoal grills in a park setting must obey the 4 p.m. Burning Law. The only exception to the burning law is when there is a camp host in the residence and the fire must be attended at all times.
To learn more about the Code of Virginia laws regarding burning click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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