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Smyth County eases burn ban, adopts Virginia '4 p.m. Burning Law' with enforcement provisions
Summary
The Board voted unanimously May 28 to replace a stricter local burn ban with the Virginia Department of Forestry’s '4 p.m. Burning Law,' allowing burning 4:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. and enforcing violations as a Class 3 misdemeanor with fines up to $500.
The Smyth County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution May 28 amending a previously declared local burn ban to align with the Virginia Department of Forestry’s "4 p.m. Burning Law," permitting open burning between 4:00 p.m. and midnight when conditions allow.
County Administrator Shawn Utt explained the Public Safety Advisory Committee and local emergency management personnel recommended rolling back the stricter local restrictions because recent precipitation and forecasts had reduced fire hazard. The resolution notes adjoining counties had rescinded burn bans and directs enforcement consistent with the Department of Forestry’s guidance.
Under the resolution, violations will be enforced as a Class 3 misdemeanor with fines of up to $500. The Board adopted the resolution by unanimous vote following a motion by Supervisor Rick Billings.
Next steps: enforcement will follow Department of Forestry guidance; the County will coordinate with local fire chiefs and emergency management to monitor conditions and adjust restrictions if necessary.
