CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor Jim Justice has issued an Outdoor Burn Ban effective now through April 24th.
The proclamation cites dry and windy weather conditions in all 55 counties and says there is “great concern that forest fires could unexpectedly and rapidly increase thereby endangering life and property.”
The governor has enacted a ban through April 24th, declaring it to be unlawful “for any person in the state to engage in outdoor burning, including fires built for camping, the burning of debris, or warming.”
Morgan County Sheriff KC Bohrer clarifies some fires that are allowable 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.