It's fall fire season; Kentucky burn restrictions are back in force

October means the return of daytime restrictions concerning outdoor burning.

Kentucky's fall forest fire hazard season runs from October 1 through December 15. 
 
During this period, state law (KRS 149.400) implements specific restrictions to prevent wildfires driven by dry autumn vegetation and shifting weather conditions. 
 
It is illegal to burn anything within 150 feet of any woodland or brushland between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.  
 
"Dead grass, leaves and twigs can dry out quickly and act as fuel for fire,” said James Wright, director of the Division of Forestry. “It is very important that people do not develop a false confidence, even during wet conditions.”

Where local laws allow, burning is permitted from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. However, no one should burn unless the air is calm and there is adequate moisture in the air to prevent the spread of fire. It is always illegal to start a fire any time of the year on or near timberland without taking all reasonable precautions to prevent it from spreading.

“One of the leading causes of forest fires in Kentucky is fire accidentally escaping when people burn trash or unwanted material,” Wright said. He added that it is illegal to burn garbage or any other materials except natural plant matter. All fires should be attended at all times.

Before conducting any outdoor burning, check with the local fire department and county government to find out about restrictions and local ordinances. Also check the state air quality and state waste management regulations before conducting any outdoor burning. The Division for Air Quality has many outdoor burning restrictions and should be contacted at 1-888-BURN-LAW.