CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Governor Jim Justice has issued a proclamation banning all outdoor burning effective immediately due to drought conditions.
The order makes it unlawful for any person in the state to engage in outdoor burning, including fires for camping, burning debris, or warming.
The following items are excluded from the restrictions:
1. Fires for the purpose of chemical production, where fire is essential to operation.
2. Fires for commercial land-clearing efforts like mining, highway construction, and development. A pit-burner is required for these fires. A permit shall be obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
3. Training fires conducted under the direct control and supervision of qualified instructors at a training facility operated by a fire department or government entity. A permit shall be obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
4. Fires for commercial outdoor cooking, including cooking for fairs and festivals. A water source capable of extinguishing the fire must be present.
Liquid-fueled gas fire stoves, grills, or lanterns.
The the Division of Forestry will enact the forest fire readiness plan and enforce the burning ban.
“We have experienced a significant, extended period of above average temperatures, low humidity and below average rainfall,” West Virginia Division of Forestry Director and State Forester Barry Cook said. “In September alone, we have experienced 60 different fires in the state. Conditions have not been like this for 10 years. This ban helps ensure we are doing what we can to protect our forests, the public, and private property from the damage that could occur from a forest fire.”