News

Fall fire Season Begins

Fall fire season started Monday and continues through Dec. 31, according to the West Virginia Division of Forestry. 
“This past summer’s drought has led to more trees losing their leaves fast this fall,” said Jeremy Jones, state forester. “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 percent of all wildfires during the past 10 years. 
The DOF reminds residents to confine their outdoor burning to the hours of 5 p.m.-7 a.m., according to staet law.
Fires set during that time must be put out before 7 a.m. 
Fall fire season restrictions include:

  • No outdoor burning from 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Any fire set between 5 p.m.-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 DOF can issue commercial permits to burn during the prohibited periods.