While hard to envision, with the current snow-covered landscape in Stafford and throughout the state, the Commonwealth's 4 p.m. Burning Law went into effect Feb. 15 - the start of spring fire season in Virginia.
This law prohibits burning before 4 p.m. each day (Feb. 15 - April 30) if the fire is in, or within 300 feet of, woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials.
A violation of this law is a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by up to a $500 fine. In addition to the criminal violation, those who allow a fire to escape are liable for the cost of suppressing the fire as well as any damage caused to others' property.
More information can be found on the Department of Forestry website - http://www.dof.virginia.gov/fire/burn-bans.shtml or by contacting the Stafford County Fire Marshals Office at 540-658-7200.
