CHARLESTON, WV (WOAY) — In response to ongoing dry weather, low water levels, and increased fire activity, Governor Jim Justice has enacted a statewide ban on all outdoor burning effective today, November 4, 2024.
This decision aims to mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfires as dry conditions persist across the state. The ban will remain in effect until conditions improve and the Governor issues a further proclamation to rescind it.
Under this proclamation, it is unlawful for individuals to engage in outdoor burning activities, which include campfires, debris burning, and warming fires. However, the following exceptions are permitted:
- Fires for Chemical Production: Essential for operational processes.
- Commercial Land-Clearing Fires: Such as those related to mining, highway construction, and development, provided that a permit is secured from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
- Training Fires: Conducted under the supervision of qualified instructors at fire department or government-operated training facilities, with a required permit from the Division of Forestry.
- Outdoor Cooking Fires: For fundraising events and charitable organizations, provided a sufficient water source for extinguishing the fire is available and a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to the event.
- Liquid-Fueled Devices: This includes gas grills, lanterns, or stoves.
The Governor has directed the Division of Forestry to implement a forest fire readiness plan and to enforce the outdoor burning ban as specified in W.Va. Code §20-1-1.
Additionally, the proclamation mandates the Division of Forestry and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to continuously update both the Governor and the public about current forest conditions.
Cooperation among various state agencies, including the Division of Natural Resources, the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Department of Homeland Security, and the State Police, is also required to ensure the effective enforcement of this ban.
