Newport News, VA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)
Outdoor burning rules in Newport News, 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
- Trash Burning
- Prohibited
- Recreational Fires
- Allowed in approved containers
- Burn Permit
- May be required for yard waste
- Authority
- City Code Ch. 16 / VA DEQ
Summary
Newport News regulates open burning under Chapter 16 of the City Code (Fire Prevention). Open burning of trash is prohibited. Recreational fires and yard waste burning may be allowed under specific conditions with a burn permit from the fire department.
B. Except as provided in subsection C, during the period February 15 through April 30 of each year, even though the precautions required by the foregoing subsection have been taken, it shall be unlawful, in any county or city or portion thereof organized for forest fire control under the direction of the State Forester, for any person to set fire to, or to procure another to set fire to, any brush, leaves, grass, debris or field containing dry grass or other inflammable material capable of spreading fire, located in or within 300 feet of any woodland, brushland, or field containing dry grass or other inflammable material, except between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 12:00 midnight. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any fires which may be set to prevent damage to orchards or
Full Breakdown
Under Newport News Code Chapter 16, open burning is regulated by the fire department. Burning of household trash and construction debris is prohibited. Small recreational fires for cooking or warmth may be allowed in approved containers. Yard waste burning may require a permit. Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) burn regulations also apply. The fire department may issue burn bans during dry conditions.
Violations & Fines
Open burning violations result in fire department citations. Burning during burn bans or without required permits carries fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn yard waste in Newport News?
Are campfires allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Newport News
How Newport News compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Compare Newport News to another location·View the Virginia fire regulations overview
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