Virginia Law For Burning

The Virginia Department of Forestry says a statewide outdoor burning ban is now  in effect until the end of April.

According to the  forestry department  the state law prohibits outdoor burning before 4 p.m. if the fire is in, or within 300 feet of, woodland, brush, or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials.

The ban is in effect until April 30.

Since Jan. 1, 2012  the  forestry department has responded to 166 fires that burned 1,570 acres statewide.

Those who comply with the ban should still avoid burning things if wind speeds are higher than 20 mph, or if the winds are blowing toward homes. Instead of burning leaves, people should compost them.