Virginia’s 4 PM Burn Law: What You Need to Know
The Virginia 4 PM Burn Law limits open-air burning from February 15th to April 30th. During this period, you cannot burn before 4:00 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of woods or dry grass. These areas could easily catch fire and spread. After 4:00 p.m. until midnight, you can burn, but only if you follow proper precautions and attend the fire at all times.
What is Open-Air Burning?
Open-air burning refers to any outdoor fire not contained within a non-flammable barrier or covered by a chimney. For example, a typical campfire is an open-air fire. You may burn as long as you safely contain the fire. If you meet specific conditions, you can burn without breaking the law.
Criteria for Safe Burning
To comply with the law, you must contain the fire in a ring of rocks, cinderblocks, metal rings, or a similar device. You should cover the fire with a metal screen that has holes no larger than ¼ inch. Always stay with the fire. Clear all flammable materials from a 20-foot area around it.
Before lighting the fire, make sure you have access to water, a rake, and a shovel in case you need to control the fire. These precautions will help keep the fire safe and prevent it from spreading.
Barbecues and Grills
The 4 PM Burn Law doesn’t apply to charcoal or gas-fired barbecue grills. However, open-air charcoal grills, like those found in parks, still count as open-air fires. You must follow the 4 PM Burn Law when using them.
For safety, always clear flammable materials from around your grill. Never leave the grill unattended. Ensure that it is completely extinguished or turned off when you’re done.
Fires More Than 300 Feet From Woods
If you burn more than 300 feet from woods or dry vegetation that could catch fire, the 4 PM Burn Law doesn’t apply. For example, you can burn in an open area far from vegetation without needing to follow this rule.
Exceptions and Special Considerations
Few exceptions apply to the law. Fires built in commercially-available chimineas or fire pits aren’t considered open-air fires. These units are fully contained and often come with a metal screen. If the chiminea or fire pit is in good condition and doesn’t pose a fire risk to surrounding areas, you can use it legally.
Check Local Guidelines
Always check local regulations before burning. Some areas may enforce stricter rules than the state law. If you have questions or concerns about the law, contact the Virginia Department of Forestry. If you need help with a controlled burn, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
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