Virginia’s Spring Burning Rules Effective Friday Until April 30
Posted: February 12, 2013
HARRISONBURG — Virginia’s burn law goes into effect Friday, the first day of the spring fire season.
The 63-year-old law, which is designed to reduce the incidence of wildfires, prohibits burning before 4 p.m. each day until April 30 if the controlled fire is within 300 feet of woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials.
After 4 p.m., winds usually die down, the temperature is lower and humidity increases, creating a safer environment for burning, officials say.
Even when burning takes place legally, fire officials say it’s not advisable if it hasn’t rained in several days, the winds are high or if equipment to control the fire isn’t available.
A violation of the burning law is a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by up to a $500 fine. Those who allow a fire to escape are also liable for the cost of suppressing it and any damage caused to others’ property.
For more information, visit www.dof.virginia.gov .
Contact Candace Sipos at 574-6275 or csipos@dnronline.com
The 63-year-old law, which is designed to reduce the incidence of wildfires, prohibits burning before 4 p.m. each day until April 30 if the controlled fire is within 300 feet of woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials.
After 4 p.m., winds usually die down, the temperature is lower and humidity increases, creating a safer environment for burning, officials say.
Even when burning takes place legally, fire officials say it’s not advisable if it hasn’t rained in several days, the winds are high or if equipment to control the fire isn’t available.
A violation of the burning law is a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by up to a $500 fine. Those who allow a fire to escape are also liable for the cost of suppressing it and any damage caused to others’ property.
For more information, visit www.dof.virginia.gov .
Contact Candace Sipos at 574-6275 or csipos@dnronline.com