Fall wildfire hazard season is underway in Kentucky

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet reminds residents to be alert as the fall wildfire hazard season began Oct. 1, with outdoor burning restrictions now in place throughout the state.

The Kentucky Division of Forestry responds to 850 to 1,000 wildfires annually across the state. Studies show that 99 percent of wildfires in Kentucky are caused by human activity. Arsonists start over half of the wildfires, and the second leading cause is debris fires that escape. 

“Fuel moisture of vegetation varies across the state as some areas have experienced recent rainfall while others remain very dry, especially near the southern border of our state,” said State Forester Brandon Howard. “This uneven weather pattern increases the risk of wildfires, with dry regions seeing greater potential for fires to start and spread rapidly. Regardless of your situation, good judgment should always be used when working with fire, as the fall season escalates wildfire potential.”

From now through Dec. 15, Kentucky’s outdoor burning law prohibits burning between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. if the fire is within 150 feet of any woodland, brushland, or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials. These restrictions are in also in effect every spring (Feb. 15 – April 30).

Kentucky has more than 12 million acres of forests, nearly half the state. Those forests are the foundation of a major economic force in the state. In 2024-2025, Kentucky’s forest products industry contributed $20 billion to our economy and provided more than 28,000 jobs.


(AP file photo)