>>Virginia's Statewide Burning Law Goes Into Effect Saturday
(Richmond, VA) -- As spring nears and Virginians plan for warmer weather for camping and cook outs, State officials begin to remind residents about the burning law. Katie Gray reports.Preview: SCRIPT:
Virginia's statewide burning law goes into effect, this Saturday, February 15 through April 30th, prohibiting outdoor burning between midnight and 4 p.m. Violation of the law is a Class 3 misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500. The law applies to outdoor burning within 300 feet of woods or dry grass, including debris burning, campfires, and open-air charcoal grills. Exceptions are made for charcoal or gas-fired barbecue grills and campfires at Virginia State Parks. The Department of Forestry is preparing for an earlier and longer wildfire season, urging residents to follow safety measures to prevent destructive wildfires.