Why are some people allowed to have open air fires before 4 pm when they are within 300 feet of the woods?

The 4 pm Law provides for some exceptions to the regulations. Vineyards and orchard owners are allowed to set fires in an attempt to protect their crops from damaging frost. Virginia Certified Prescribed Burn Managers who have applied for and were granted an exemption are allowed to use a prescribed fire under specific and pre-approved conditions for very specific resource management objectives. These management objectives are:

  • Control of exotic and invasive plant species that cannot be accomplished at other times of the year.
  • Establishment and maintenance of wildlife habitat that cannot be accomplished at other times of the year.
  • Necessary management of natural heritage resources.

Show All Answers

1. What is the 4 pm Law?
2. When is the 4 pm Law in effect?
3. Why is there a 4 pm Law?
4. Why 4 pm?
5. What is the main cause of wildfires in Virginia?
6. How many wildfires burn in Virginia each year and how many acres are burned?
7. Can I have a campfire if I put rocks around it?
8. If I take all precautions with my fire after 4 pm and it does escape and start a fire, am I responsible for the suppression cost?
9. What is the penalty for violating the 4 pm Law?
10. Can I use my charcoal or gas fire barbeque grill?
11. Are building contractors and road construction jobs exempt from the 4 pm Law?
12. Why are some people allowed to have open air fires before 4 pm when they are within 300 feet of the woods?
13. Can I use a fire pit when the 4 pm Law is in effect?