Outdoor Burning: Herndon vs Vienna
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Herndon, VA and Vienna, VA?
Herndon and Vienna have similar restriction levels.
Herndon, VA
Fairfax County
Open burning in Herndon is tightly restricted. The Virginia 4 PM Burning Law (VA Code §10.1-1142) prohibits burning before 4 PM from February 15 through April 30 within 300 feet of woodland. Burning of trash, leaves, and construction debris is banned year-round. Only small recreational fires of clean wood are generally allowed without a permit.
View full Herndon rules →Vienna, VA
Fairfax County
Vienna prohibits open burning of leaves, brush, and yard waste within town limits. The Town of Vienna follows the Statewide Fire Prevention Code and Fairfax County open burning restrictions, which forbid most residential open burning in densely populated areas. The Virginia 4 PM Burning Law applies countywide during spring fire season (February 15 through April 30).
View full Vienna rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Herndon | Vienna |
|---|---|---|
| Fact | 4 PM Burning Law: no burn before 4 PM, Feb 15-Apr 30, within 300 ft of woodland | Open burning of leaves, brush, and trash prohibited in town |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Herndon FAQ
When can I legally burn brush in Herndon?
Open brush burning is heavily restricted in Herndon. Even outside spring fire season, urban air quality rules generally prohibit burning leaves and yard debris. Bagged collection through Public Works is the expected disposal method.
What is the Virginia 4 PM Burning Law?
VA Code §10.1-1142 prohibits outdoor burning before 4:00 PM from February 15 through April 30 whenever the fire is within 300 feet of woodland or dry grass. It applies statewide including in Herndon.
Vienna FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my backyard in Vienna?
No. Burning leaves, grass clippings, and yard waste is prohibited. Use Vienna curbside yard waste collection or the Fairfax County I-66 Transfer Station instead.
Are backyard fire pits legal in Vienna?
Yes, small recreational fire pits are allowed if under 3 feet wide, at least 25 feet from structures, fueled only by clean firewood, and attended at all times.
What is the 4 PM Burning Law?
A Virginia statute prohibiting outdoor burning before 4 PM between February 15 and April 30 when within 300 feet of woodland or dry grass. It applies countywide.
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