Justice issues statewide burn ban, as drought conditions continue in West Virginia

During a burn ban, using fire pits is not allowed because of the dry conditions. (Lori Kersey | West Virginia Watch)

As drought conditions continue in West Virginia, Gov. Jim Justice on Monday issued a proclamation banning outdoor burning in all 55 counties.

The statewide burn ban is meant to reduce the risk of “catastrophic wildfires,” and will be in effect until conditions improve and Justice rescinds the proclamation, a news release said.  

A lack of rain led to drought conditions in the state beginning in the summer. The drought has devastated farmers in the state and threatened the water supply in at least one city. 

As of last week, all of West Virginia remains under abnormally dry to exceptional drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. 

Until the governor’s order is lifted, it’s against the law to burn fires, including those built for camping, the burning of debris or warming. 

The following are exceptions to the burn ban:

• 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 if a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry.
• Training fires done under the direct control and supervision of qualified instructors at a training facility operated by a fire department or government entity if a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
• Fires for outdoor cooking conducted for fundraising 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.