BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has issued a proclamation banning outdoor across West Virginia.
Justice said the goal is to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires because of the dry weather conditions, low water levels in some communities, and fire activity.
The ban is effective Nov. 4.
The proclamation makes it illegal for anyone to engage in outdoor burning, including fires for camping, burning debris, or for warming.
There are some fires that are excluded from the ban. Those include:
- Fires for the purpose of chemical production, where fire is essential to operation.
- Fires for commercial land-clearing, such as mining, highway construction, and development: Provided, that a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
- Training fires conducted under the direct control and supervision of qualified instructors at a training facility operated by a fire department or government entity: Provided, that a permit for such training fires is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
- Fires for outdoor cooking conducted for fund-raising events and charitable organizations: Provided, that a water source capable of extinguishing the fire must be present and a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to the operation.
- Liquid fueled gas grills, lanterns or liquid-fueled gas fire stoves.
Justice said the ban will stay in place until circumstances improve and the proclamation is rescinded.
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