How Virginia's Burn Permit System Works
Virginia's mandatory permit period (February 15–April 30) comes with a unique restriction: during this window, burning is only permitted after 4:00 PM. This rule exists because morning and afternoon winds are typically stronger and relative humidity is lower, making escapes more likely. After 4 PM, conditions moderate. Virginia loses thousands of acres to wildfire every spring, driven almost entirely by escaped debris burns and brush fires. The VDOF takes February–April enforcement seriously and rangers actively patrol during this period.
Getting a Virginia Burn Permit
- Agency: Virginia Department of Forestry
- Phone: 1-800-628-2478
- Portal: https://dof.virginia.gov
- Cost: Free
- Valid: Same day
Seasonal Notes & Burn Bans
February 15–April 30 is the mandatory permit + after-4-PM-only window. Virginia's worst wildfire years coincide with drought conditions extending into this period. Summer is generally not a concern for escaped debris burns, but local fire ordinances still apply.
What You Can Burn in Virginia
Natural vegetation, yard debris, agricultural residue. No prohibited materials. Virginia also prohibits burning within 300 feet of a neighbor's occupied dwelling without their consent during the mandatory permit period.
- Leaves and yard trimmings
- Natural brush and branches
- Downed trees (untreated wood)
- Agricultural crop residue
Never legal to burn anywhere in Virginia: Household garbage, treated/painted wood, tires, plastics, construction debris, or hazardous materials.
Frequently Asked Questions — Virginia
February 15 through April 30 statewide. During this period you must have a VDOF permit AND only burn after 4:00 PM. Outside this window, permits are not required by the state, but local ordinances may still apply.
The after-4-PM rule during the mandatory permit period (Feb 15–Apr 30) exists because morning and afternoon conditions are typically more dangerous — drier air, stronger winds. By late afternoon, relative humidity rises and winds often calm, making burns safer and less likely to escape.
Call 1-800-628-2478 (VDOF) or visit dof.virginia.gov. The permit process takes a few minutes by phone. Rangers check current conditions and issue a permit number if conditions allow.