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Alexandria, VA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Outdoor burning rules in Alexandria, VA, also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance, set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.

Key Facts

4 PM Law
Feb 15-Apr 30 before 4 PM
Banned Materials
Garbage, tires, construction debris
Burn Bans
VDOF issues
State Law
VA Code §10.1-1142

Summary

Alexandria regulates outdoor burning under local code and Virginia's 4 PM Burning Law (VA Code §10.1-1142). VDOF issues burn permits and bans.

10.1-1142 . Regulating the burning of woods, brush, etc.; penalties. A. It shall be unlawful for any owner or lessee of land to set fire to, or to procure another to set fire to, any woods, brush, logs, leaves, grass, debris, or other inflammable material upon such land unless he previously has taken all reasonable care and precaution, by having cut and piled the same or carefully cleared around the same, to prevent the spread of such fire to lands other than those owned or leased by him. It shall also be unlawful for any employee of any such owner or lessee of land to set fire to or to procure another to set fire to any woods, brush, logs, leaves, grass, debris, or other inflammable material, upon such land unless he has taken similar precautions to prevent the spread of such fire to any

Source: Alexandria, VA Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

Outdoor burning in Alexandria is regulated by local fire code and state law. Virginia's iconic 4 PM Burning Law (VA Code §10.1-1142) prohibits open burning before 4 PM from February 15 through April 30 within 300 ft of woodland. Virginia DEQ regulates air quality under 9 VAC 5. VDOF issues burn permits and burn bans during drought conditions. Burning of garbage, tires, construction debris, and wire insulation is prohibited. Yard waste burning may be permitted with restrictions. Burns must be attended.

Violations & Fines

Violating 4 PM Law: up to $500. Illegal burning: $250 to $1,000. Burning during ban: up to $1,000 and possible criminal charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn yard waste?
Varies by Alexandria and season. The 4 PM Law restricts burning before 4 PM from Feb 15-Apr 30 near woodland.
How do I check for burn bans?
Contact Virginia Department of Forestry or check their website for current burn conditions.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Alexandria

All Alexandria rules

How Alexandria compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Compare Alexandria to another location·View the Virginia fire regulations overview

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