Kentucky Statewide Rule

Kentucky Outdoor Burning Forest Fire Hazard Seasons

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Kentucky (2026)

Key Facts

Spring Season: Feb 15 - Apr 30
Fall Season: Oct 1 - Dec 15
Prohibited Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM
Distance Trigger: Within 150 feet woodland
Statute: KRS 149.400

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Commonwealth of Kentucky

Summary

Kentucky law universally prohibits outdoor burning between 6 AM and 6 PM within 150 feet of woodland during forest fire hazard seasons (Feb 15-Apr 30 and Oct 1-Dec 15), unless the ground is snow covered.

149.400 Fire hazard seasons - Fires prohibited - Exceptions. (1) The periods commencing on February 15 and ending on April 30 and commencing on October 1 and ending on December 15 of each year are hereby declared to be and established as the fire hazard seasons. During the fire hazard seasons, even though the precautions required by KRS 149.375 shall have been taken, it shall be unlawful for any person to set fire to, or to procure another to set fire to, any flammable material capable of spreading fire, located in or within one hundred fifty feet (150') of any woodland or brushland, except between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., prevailing local time, or when the ground is covered with snow.

Source: Commonwealth of KentuckyView official code

Full Breakdown

KRS 149.400 establishes two statewide forest fire hazard seasons: spring (February 15 through April 30) and fall (October 1 through December 15). During these seasons, it is unlawful to burn any material within 150 feet of any woodland, brushland, or field containing dry grass or other flammable material between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., unless the ground is snow covered. Burning is allowed between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. The law applies universally across Kentucky and is enforced by the Division of Forestry. Counties and fire chiefs retain authority to impose additional, stricter local burn bans.

Violations & Penalties

Violations are Class B misdemeanors punishable by fines up to $250 plus potential liability for fire suppression costs and damages caused by escaped fires under KRS 149.990.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn yard waste during fire hazard season?

Only between 6 PM and 6 AM, and only if more than 150 feet from any woodland or dry vegetation. Garbage and non-natural materials may not be burned.

What if my county has its own burn ban?

Local burn bans imposed by counties or fire chiefs are stricter and override the state defaults. Always check local restrictions before burning.

Is burning allowed when snow covers the ground?

Yes. KRS 149.400 expressly exempts burning when the ground is snow covered, regardless of the time of day or fire hazard season.

Sources

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