Spring burn ban starts Feb. 15

The Spring Wildfire Season is effective Monday, February 15 at 4:00 pm. The ban is in place through April 30. 

Open air burning is allowed only after 4:00 pm through midnight if the fire is within 300 feet of woodland or grass brushland leading into woodlands. Fires must be attended at all times. 

The state law applies to camp fires, warming fires, brush piles, household trash, stumps, fields of broomstraw and brush, or anything capable of spreading fire. 

The Virginia Department of Forestry’s FAQ answers two questions often asked of NCSO:

Why is there a 4 p.m. Law?

The 4 p.m. Law was adopted during the 1940's to reduce the number of wildfires which occurred each spring. During this time of the year, Virginia traditionally has an increased number of fires. During the winter months, winds are usually elevated, the relative humidity is lower and the fuels on the forest floor are extremely dry, having "cured" without having the tree leaves to shade them.

Why 4 o'clock?

After 4 p.m., winds usually calm down and the relative humidity levels are on the increase, both of which reduce the potential for a debris fire or any outdoor open air fire to escape your control.

The ban is enforceable by the sheriff’s office. Violation of the 4:00 pm law is a Class 3 misdemeanor with a fine up to $500.