Loudoun County residents must adhere to strict open burning regulations beginning February 15, 2025, as the county enforces the “4 p.m. Law.” This seasonal restriction, in place through April 30, 2025, limits open-air burning to specific hours to mitigate wildfire risks during the dry and windy late winter and early spring months.
What is the 4 p.m. Law?
Enforced by both the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Virginia Department of Forestry, the law prohibits open burning between midnight and 4 p.m. daily. These restrictions aim to curb the potential for fast-spreading wildfires, a frequent concern in Virginia’s woodland and grassland areas.
Permitted Burning Hours & Locations
Residents may conduct open burning only between 4 p.m. and midnight, with certain limitations:
- Fires must be at least 50 feet away from any structures.
- Open-air burning is not permitted within the town limits of Leesburg, Lovettsville, Middleburg, Purcellville, Round Hill, and urban or built-up areas throughout the county.
- Only leaves, trees, brush, and yard trimmings generated on-site may be burned.
Fire Safety Requirements & Legal Consequences
Individuals conducting open burning must follow strict safety measures:
- The fire must be attended at all times by a competent adult (18+ years old).
- Provisions for immediate extinguishment must be available.
- Residents must notify the Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center at 703-777-0637 both before ignition and after extinguishment.
- Fires must not be added to after midnight.
Violations of these regulations can result in Class 1 misdemeanor charges, carrying penalties of up to $2,500 in fines and one year in jail. Additionally, violators may be required to reimburse the county for firefighting costs if a fire gets out of control.
Why This Law Matters
- Wildfire Prevention: The restrictions align with seasonal fire patterns, addressing increased fire hazards due to dry outdoor fuels and high winds.
- Public Safety: Preventing uncontrolled fires reduces risks to homes, businesses, and natural areas.
- Legal Compliance: Understanding and following the law can help residents avoid hefty fines and legal consequences.
Fire Season Details |
Dates & Regulations |
|---|---|
| Open Burning Permitted | October 1 – February 14 (4 p.m. – midnight) |
| 4 p.m. Law in Effect | February 15 – April 30 (burning prohibited midnight – 4 p.m.) |
| Open Burning Prohibited | May 1 – September 30 |
Recent Fire Incidents Highlight the Importance of Fire Safety In February 2024, a home explosion in Sterling led to multiple firefighter injuries and a tragic line-of-duty death, underscoring the dangers of uncontrolled fires. Additionally, emergency responders, including the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company, handled 208 fire calls in January 2025 alone, reinforcing the necessity of fire prevention measures.
What’s Next for Loudoun County?
With fire risks remaining a persistent concern, residents must take an active role in following open burning regulations. Staying informed and compliant with fire safety laws will help protect homes, businesses, and the county’s natural landscape.
For more details on the 4 p.m. Law and other fire regulations, visit the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office website at www.loudoun.gov/firemarshal or call 703-737-8600.
Sources: Loudoun County.
