News Flash

Department of Forestry 4:00 PM Burn Law in Effect Through April 30th

Fire-Rescue Posted on February 15, 2026

The Virginia Department of Forestry 4 p.m. Burn Law is in effect from February 15th through April 30th. 

The 4:00 PM Burning Law specifies: 

  • No burning until AFTER 4:00 p.m. February15 through April 30 of each year, if the fire is in or within 300 feet of woodland, brushland or field containing dry grass or other flammable material.
  • Fire shall not be left unattended if within 150 feet of woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass.
  • No new fires set, no fuel added, or fire rekindled after midnight.
  • Law applies to campfires, warming fires, brush piles, leaves, household trash, stumps, fields of broomstraw and brush or anything capable of spreading fire.
  • The law provides for a penalty of up to $500, plus payment of court costs and fire suppression costs if the fire escapes.

For questions or more information about the 4:00 p.m. Burning Law contact the local Virginia Department of Forestry office at (540) 967-3702 or Goochland County Fire-Rescue (804) 556-5304.