Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
4100 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Phone: 703-246-3801, TTY: 711 and Fax:703-385-1687
Duty PIO (Weekends/After-hours): 703-280-0694
Media Information Line: 703-324-3000
Email: fire-rescue.PIO-LSE@fairfaxcounty.gov
Website: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire

11/21/07

Governor Lifts Burn Ban

Governor Timothy M. Kaine has lifted the statewide ban on open burning. The ban was initiated October 19, 2007, in response to the dry weather and drought conditions throughout the state. Fairfax County has also lifted the burn ban.

There were 118 fires which burned a total of 855 acres during the ban period. At least 18 of those 118 fires were caused by people violating the burn ban. State forestry officials stress that lifting the ban does not mean the threat of wildfire is gone.

In addition to any fines for violating the fire laws, anyone who allows a fire to escape is liable for the potentially significant costs of suppressing that fire. Since January 1, 2007, the Virginia Department of Forestry has spent more than $580,000 fighting wildfires.

For tips to reduce the risk of fire, follow these guidelines:

• Clear a safety zone that is wide enough to prevent the escape of fire.
• Keep a supply of water and a rake or shovel on hand.
• Do not leave a fire unattended (state law year round).
• If a fire does escape, call 911 immediately.
• Burn when the wind is calm.
• Never leave a campfire unattended.
• Adults should drown the fire with water before leaving it.

Open burning fires, controlled burning, and bonfire permits are required under the County of Fairfax Air Pollution Control Chapter (Chapter 103, Fairfax County Code), and the Fire Prevention Code of the County of Fairfax. These Fire Prevention Code Permits are issued by the Fairfax County Office of the Fire Marshal.

Information about Fairfax County Fire Prevention Code Permits is available at: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fr/prevention.

To report a complaint of illegal open burning, contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849 during normal business hours. For after-hours complaints, please call 703-691-2131.

For more information, call Daniel L. Schmidt or Lieutenant Raúl G. Castillo, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, 703-246-3801 and TTY: 711. Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request.