CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Fall fire season started on Oct. 1 in West Virginia, and the West Virginia Division of Forestry (WV DOF) announced today.
Burning is restricted to the hours of 5 p.m. to 7 a.m., according to the West Virginia State Code Chapter 20-3-5. Burning between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. is prohibited.
“As West Virginia approaches its fall fire season, we’re asking everyone to be mindful of safe burning practices and burning laws,” Wildfires pose a significant threat to our communities, and it is imperative that we all take precautions. By adhering to our longstanding established regulations, we can collectively ensure the protection of our forests, our homes, and our loved ones. Let’s make this fall season a safe and beautiful season for everyone.”
Daytime burning is restricted during the fall fire season because the lower humidity and common floor debris that may cause fires to spread more easily. Daytime burning is prohibited because the forest floor is often covered in dry leaves and other debris that may cause fires to spread more easily.
The leading cause of wildfires is human activity. The common cause of wildfires averaging nearly 1,000 annually in West Virginia is debris burning.
West Virginia residents are encouraged to learn the full details of West Virginia’s fire laws and safe fire practices. Familiarizing oneself with these practices is essential to help keep our communities safe.
Laws and safe fire practices can be found on the West Virginia Division of Forestry website in the 2024 Open Burning Laws and Safe Fire Report highlighting the current active fire bans.
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All fires must be attended to at all times.
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No outdoor burning from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Any fire set between 5 p.m. and 7 a.m. must be completely extinguished before 7 a.m. the following day.
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Before leaving any fire for any length of time, the fire must be completely extinguished.
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Clear at least a 10-foot area (safety circle) around the fire. The safety circle must be cleared of all flammable materials.
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Any equipment that can throw sparks must have an effective spark arrestor.
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Any cases must be provided with an effective spark arrestor.
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Violators of the state’s fire laws may be liable for the costs of fighting the fire and any damages the fire may cause.
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Anyone who starts a wildfire is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000.
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WV DOF law enforcement personnel perform nearly 1,500 fire patrols each season.
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The Division of Forestry protects nearly 12 million acres of forestland in West Virginia. The fire seasons and other forest fire safety and programs like forest legacy, logging safety are all managed by the division.