CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) — Chesapeake Fire Department wants to remind Virginians the state’s 4 p.m. burning law is in effect from Feb. 15 through April 30.
The law bans open-air burning before 4 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass which cause the fire spread to the woods.
However, burning is allowed between 4 p.m. and midnight as long as proper precautionary measures are in place and the person attends the fire at all times.
Officials say burners that do not take precautions could face legal and financial consequence. Violation of the 4 p.m. burning law is a class 3 misdemeanor that come with a fine of $500.
- Reason for the 4 p.m. burning law: Debris burning is the number one cause of wildfires, closely followed by intentionally set or “arson” fires. Fires are more likely during late winter and early spring because winds are usually elevated, the relative humidity is lower, and the fuels on the forest floor are extremely dry, having “cured” all winter without the shade of tree leaves
- Open-Air Burning: The 4 p.m. burning law applies to open-air burning, which means any outdoor fire that is not covered and/or contained within non-flammable barriers. For example, a typical campfire is considered an open-air fire.
- Exemptions to the 4 p.m. burning law: his law does not apply to charcoal or gas-fired barbeque grills. Users are still encouraged to take proper care and precaution by clearing all flammable material from around the grill and staying with it until it is completely extinguished or turned off.
All burners are encouraged to check with their locality before starting any outdoor burning as some localities may have more restrictive regulations.
For more information about the 4 p.m. burning law click here.