FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 28, 2020) – Despite one of the wettest winters on record, Kentucky’s forest fire hazard season has begun, and forestry personnel hope it will ‘spark’ a renewed sense of vigilance among Kentucky residents.
“Even with the heavy precipitation this winter, 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 during wet conditions.”
Kentucky law designates Feb. 15 through April 30 as spring forest fire hazard season. During this time, it is illegal to burn anything within 150 feet of any woodland or brush land between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Where local laws allow, burning is permitted from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., as winds and humidity are generally lower. 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.
