Fall fire season started Monday, Oct. 1, and will continue through Dec. 31, the West Virginia Division of Forestry (WV DOF) announced last week.
“This past summer’s drought has led to more trees losing their leaves fast this fall,” said Jeremy Jones, Director/State Forester of the West Virginia Division of Forestry. “We ask the public to help protect our beautiful forests and follow burning laws and to please be mindful of the weather and conditions we are facing this year.”
During the fall, dry leaves and forest floor debris become more flammable. Burning is prohibited during the daytime hours because, even in fall, relative humidity typically increases in the evening.
Debris burning is West Virginia’s most common cause of wildfires, averaging more than 35% of all wildfires over the past ten years.
A summary of forest fire laws and safe fire practices can be found on the state Division of Forestry website.
WV DOF reminds residents to confine their outdoor burning to the hours of 5 p.m. to 7 a.m., according to the West Virginia State Code Chapter 20-3-5. Fires set during that time must be put out before 7 a.m.
The fall fire season state law restrictions include:
- No outdoor burning from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Any fire set between 5 p.m. and 7 a.m. must be extinguished before 7 a.m.
- Fires must be attended at all times.
- Before leaving any fire for any length of time, the fire must be completely extinguished.
- Clear at least a 10-foot area (safety strip) around the fire and make sure all burnable material has been removed.
- Any equipment that can throw sparks and operating on land subject to fire by any cause must be provided with an adequate spark arrestor.
- If your fire escapes, you are liable for the costs of fighting the fire and any damage the fire may cause.
- Violation of the burning law is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000.
The WV DOF can issue commercial permits to burn during the prohibited periods.
West Virginia residents can review the Daily Fire Report, which highlights the current active fire season online.
The Division of Forestry protects nearly 12 million acres of forestland across West Virginia. For more information on fire safety and programs like forest legacy, logging and landowner assistance, visit wvforestry.com.
