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Virginia Campfire Rules (2026)
Conditional: During the 4 PM Burning Law (Feb 15–Apr 30) campfires count as open-air burning and are banned before 4 PM within 300 ft of woods.
During the 4 PM Burning Law (Feb 15–Apr 30) campfires count as open-air burning and are banned before 4 PM within 300 ft of woods. Allowed if covered by a 1/4-inch metal screen or kept 300+ ft from woods/brush; attend the fire and have water/rake/shovel ready.
Official source: dof.virginia.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Campfire Rules in states bordering Virginia
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- District of ColumbiaConditional
Recreational and cooking fires are allowed as an exception to DC's open-burning ban, but must be kept >=25 ft from structures, constantly attended, with fire-extinguishing equipment on hand (DC Fire Code).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: doee.dc.gov · Full District of Columbia rule →
- KentuckyConditional
Recreational fires are generally allowed but during fire hazard seasons must follow the 150-ft / 6 a.m.–6 p.m. woodland restriction. Burn only natural plant matter; check local fire department before burning.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: eec.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
- MarylandPermitted
Small recreational fires such as campfires are exempt from the open air burning regulations and permit requirement, but are not allowed when a statewide burn ban is in effect.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
- North CarolinaPermitted
Campfires, outdoor cooking fires and bonfires are permitted (burning only vegetation/firewood) unless prohibited by local ordinance or a temporary burn ban. Fires must be controlled and never left unattended.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: deq.nc.gov · Full North Carolina rule →
- TennesseePermitted
Campfires are generally allowed without a state debris-burn permit, but a state or county burn ban (proclaimed by the Commissioner of Agriculture or Governor) prohibits all open-air burning including campfires and cooking fires. Check local ordinances.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: tn.gov · Full Tennessee rule →
- West VirginiaConditional
Small fires for cooking, light or warmth are exempt from the daytime ban if all grass/brush/debris is cleared 10 ft around the fire and the fire is attended until fully extinguished. Larger debris fires follow the seasonal 5 PM–7 AM hour restrictions.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: wvforestry.com · Full West Virginia rule →
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