← West Virginia burn ban rules›Open Burning Rules
West Virginia Open Burning Rules (2026)
Restricted: During spring (Mar 1–May 31) and fall (Oct 1–Dec 31) fire seasons, outdoor burning is banned 7 AM–5 PM; legal only 5 PM–7 AM with all fire out by 7 AM.
During spring (Mar 1–May 31) and fall (Oct 1–Dec 31) fire seasons, outdoor burning is banned 7 AM–5 PM; legal only 5 PM–7 AM with all fire out by 7 AM. Requires a cleared 10-ft safety ring and attendance; violation up to $1,000 fine. Allowed anytime with 1+ inch snow cover.
Official source: wvforestry.com →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Open Burning Rules in states bordering West Virginia
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- KentuckyConditional
During Forest Fire Hazard Seasons (Feb 15–Apr 30 and Oct 1–Dec 15) it is illegal to burn within 150 ft of woodland/brushland from 6 a.m.–6 p.m. Only natural plant matter may be burned; no state permit, but local rules apply.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: eec.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
- MarylandConditional
In or within 200 ft of woodland, open air burning is allowed only 4 p.m.–midnight (anytime if snow-covered) with a 10-ft cleared firebreak, on-site supervision, and equipment present. A DNR permit is required; burns over 1 acre need a burn plan.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
- OhioRestricted
Under ORC 1503.18, open burning of debris in unincorporated areas is prohibited 6 a.m.-6 p.m. during March, April, May, October and November. Outside those hours/months burning of clean plant matter may be allowed; trash burning is always illegal.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: ohiodnr.gov · Full Ohio rule →
- PennsylvaniaConditional
Open burning of debris is regulated locally; counties and the Governor can impose burn bans (county bans last up to 30 days, extendable). Propane/gas stoves, charcoal grills, and tobacco are exempt from county bans. Confirm with local authorities first.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania rule →
- VirginiaRestricted
Statewide '4 PM Burning Law' (Feb 15–Apr 30) bans open-air burning before 4 PM within 300 ft of woods/dry grass; burning allowed 4 PM–midnight if attended. Outside that season open burning is permitted with precautions; localities may add bans. No state permit, but check locality.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dof.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →
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