Outdoor burning rules in Chesterfield County, 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.
Virginia prohibits outdoor burning before 4 PM from February 15 through April 30 each year when fire is within 300 feet of woods, brushland, or fields containing dry grass under the statewide 4 PM Burning Law.
Virginia Code Section 10.1-1142 establishes the 4 PM Burning Law applying statewide each spring fire season. Between February 15 and April 30, no person may set fire or allow fire to spread within 300 feet of any woods, brushland, or field containing dry grass or other flammable material before 4:00 PM. Burning is permitted after 4 PM if the fire is constantly attended and extinguished before leaving. The statute applies regardless of local rules and is enforced by the Virginia Department of Forestry.
Violation is a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $500. Violators are also liable for suppression costs and damages caused by escaped fires.
See how Chesterfield County's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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