Outdoor burning rules in Richmond, 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.
Open burning is heavily restricted in Richmond. The Virginia 4 PM Burning Law (VA Code 10.1-1142) applies Feb 15 to April 30, prohibiting burning before 4 PM within 300 feet of woodland. Richmond additionally bans burning of yard waste and debris within city limits year-round.
Within Richmond city limits, burning of leaves, brush, and yard debris is prohibited under city ordinance regardless of season. Only small recreational fires and cooking fires are allowed. During statewide burn bans issued by the Virginia Department of Forestry, even these may be suspended. Agricultural burning is not applicable within the urban core. Land-clearing burns require a VDEQ open burning permit and are rarely issued in the city.
Violations can result in fines up to 500 dollars per occurrence under the SFPC, plus potential Class 3 misdemeanor charges under VA Code 10.1-1142 for 4 PM Law violations.
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See how Richmond's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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