MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The fall forest fire season is underway in West Virginia.
Outdoor burning is prohibited between 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless residents have a burn permit issued by the West Virginia Forestry Department.
Locally, Morgantown firefighters ask residents to observe the following requirements and restrictions:
1. Outdoor burning is only permitted during the evening and overnight hours of 5 p.m. to 7 a.m.
2. No burning is authorized during the daytime hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3. Only naturally occurring vegetation and materials can be burned.
4. Someone needs to be with the fire at all times.
5. A 10-foot safety area needs to be cleared to dirt level around the fire.
6. Open fires must be 50-feet away from any structure.
7. If your fire escapes, you are responsible for the cost of fighting the fire, and any damage the fire may cause to others.
8. Violation of burning laws may result in a fine of up to $1,000.
Special commercial burning permits are available through the local West Virginia Forestry Office in Farmington, West Virginia at 304-825-6983.