Kaine Issues Statewide Burning Ban

Gov. Timothy M. Kaine declared a statewide emergency and enacted a ban on open fires beginning Friday, Oct. 19.

The statewide burning ban is the result of drought conditions that have created a serious risk of widespread and dangerous forest fires in every region of the commonwealth.

The burn ban will remain in effect until existing weather conditions improve with significant rain or snow. Violation of the law is a Class 3 misdemeanor with a fine of not more than $500.

Kaine has authorized the Virginia National Guard to assist the Virginia Department of Forestry in fighting and mitigating the effects of wildfires. The coordinator of Emergency Management, secretary of Public Safety, adjutant general of Virginia, the commissioner of Health and the commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services will coordinate efforts to provide assistance in dealing with potential or actual drought-related issues.

The declaration does not have a direct impact on hunting season, but will prevent the use of warming or camp fires on all state-owned and privately owned lands in Virginia in addition to the prohibition on open burning.

The preceding was compiled from a Governor’s Office news release.