Omar Bennett
Wood-burning camp stoves are a convenient way to cook food and stay warm while camping. However, with the risk of wildfires and air pollution, many places have strict rules about when and where they can be used. In Virginia, the 4 PM Burning Law bans open-air burning before 4:00 pm if the fire is within 300 feet of woods or dry grass, which could cause a wildfire. Burning is allowed between 4:00 pm and midnight, provided the user takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times. So, does a wood camp stove constitute an open burn in Virginia? It depends on the type of stove and where you are camping.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of open-air fire | Any fire burning freely or that can freely spread. Examples include fireworks and flame and spark-producing tools (e.g. welding tools). |
| Types of open fires authorized by County Code without a license | Recreational fires (e.g. campfires, bonfires, backyard fires in fire pits), propane or ethanol fireplaces |
| Types of open fires unauthorized by County Code without a license | Burning wood or house coal |
| Virginia's 4 PM Burning Law | Bans open-air burning before 4:00 pm if the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass that could carry fire to the woods. Burning is allowed between 4:00 pm and midnight as long as the burner takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times. |
| Fire ban reasons | High danger of wildfire, high usage levels resulting in high impact |
| Fire ban implications | Depending on the reason for the ban, enclosed wood stoves may be permitted or banned |
| Fire safety tips | Keep the fire attended, have a fire extinguisher or water on hand, clear flammable material from the surrounding area, completely extinguish the fire before leaving |
| Firewood types to avoid | Wood covered with vines, painted wood, treated wood (e.g. wood treated with arsenic or methyl bromide) |
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What You'll Learn
Fire bans are often due to high wildfire risk or high usage levels
Fire bans are often put in place due to high wildfire risk or high usage levels. Fire hazard severity maps are used to assess the potential for vegetation to act as fuel for a wildfire over a 30- to 50-year time horizon. These maps take into account factors such as current and preceding weather conditions, fuel types, and live and dead fuel moisture levels.
When there is a high danger of wildfire, fire bans are implemented to reduce the risk of a fire breaking out. In these cases, enclosed wood stoves are typically still permitted, as they provide enough protection to limit the chances of igniting a wildfire. These stoves must be a certain distance from any flammable materials and be situated on non-combustible materials. Additionally, it is crucial to have a fire extinguisher or water on hand and to ensure that fires are attended at all times.
On the other hand, fire bans can also be a result of high usage levels, which lead to high levels of impact. In these cases, portable wood stoves are typically banned as well, as allowing their use would defeat the purpose of the ban. This is because there may not be enough firewood to sustain regular campfires for all hikers and campers in the area.
It is important to note that fire bans can vary depending on the location and specific conditions. Some areas may have standing seasonal bans during particular times of the year, while others may have condition-based bans that are implemented during times of high or extreme fire risk. It is always essential to follow the specific regulations and restrictions in place for the area you are camping or hiking in.
Overall, fire bans are an important tool to help prevent wildfires and reduce the impact of high usage levels in camping and hiking areas. By understanding the reasons behind fire bans and following the appropriate regulations, campers and hikers can do their part to help mitigate the risk of wildfires and maintain the sustainability of firewood resources.
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Enclosed stoves are usually permitted during wildfire fire bans
The permissibility of enclosed stoves during wildfire fire bans varies depending on the location and the specific circumstances. However, in general, enclosed stoves are often permitted during wildfire fire bans, while open fires are prohibited. This is because enclosed stoves provide more control over the fire and reduce the risk of igniting a wildfire.
In some areas, fire bans may be implemented due to high danger levels of wildfires, and enclosed stoves may be allowed as they provide enough protection to limit the chances of a wildfire starting. These enclosed stoves must adhere to specific guidelines, such as maintaining a certain distance from flammable materials and having a fire extinguisher or water nearby.
On the other hand, during heightened fire restrictions, even enclosed wood stoves may be banned. These restrictions are typically condition-based and imposed during times of high or extreme fire risk. In such cases, alternative cooking methods that do not involve open flames, such as gas grills, gas stoves, and gas lanterns, may be permitted.
It is important to note that regulations can vary between different counties and states. For example, Jefferson County, CO, specifically prohibits the use of chimineas and portable outdoor fireplaces during fire bans, as they produce open flames that are not liquid or gas-fueled. Therefore, it is crucial to check the local regulations and guidelines before using any type of stove or fire during a wildfire fire ban.
Overall, while enclosed stoves may be permitted during wildfire fire bans in some locations, it is essential to prioritize safety and follow all guidelines and restrictions to prevent the risk of wildfires and ensure the protection of natural environments and human lives.
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Firewood should be untreated and free from chemicals
While there are no clear answers on whether a wood camp stove constitutes an open burn in VA, there are some general guidelines and restrictions on open fires and the types of wood that can be burned. It is important to note that the requirements for an "open fire" vary depending on the location and specific regulations in Virginia.
Now, when it comes to firewood, it is crucial to use untreated wood that is free from chemicals. Here are several reasons why:
Firstly, burning painted, coated, or pressure-treated wood can release toxic or harmful chemicals into the air. Construction wood, for instance, is often treated with chemicals to prevent decay, and older pressure-treated wood may contain arsenic. Painted wood, especially if it is very old, can release lead-based paint fumes when burned, which are highly toxic. Similarly, burning salt-saturated driftwood is ill-advised due to the release of toxic or harmful chemicals, including high doses of dioxins, which are carcinogenic.
Secondly, firewood that has been treated with chemicals can pose a significant risk of transmitting invasive insects and diseases to the surrounding environment. For instance, the emerald ash borer, the Asian longhorned beetle, and the gold-spotted oak borer are some of the species that can be inadvertently spread by transporting and burning infested firewood.
Thirdly, certain types of wood, such as poison ivy, poison sumac, poison oak, and the oleander shrub, can cause severe allergic respiratory problems when burned. The smoke released from these plants contains irritant oils, such as urushiol, which can irritate the lungs and cause allergic reactions.
Lastly, green wood, or freshly cut wood, is not ideal for burning as it is full of moisture and sap, making it difficult to light and producing excessive smoke. This smoke can lead to a buildup of creosote in your chimney, which is a fire hazard.
Therefore, it is essential to choose untreated firewood that is free from chemicals to ensure a safe, environmentally friendly, and enjoyable fire experience.
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Virginia's 4 PM Burning Law restricts open-air burning
The 4 PM Burning Law applies to open-air burning, which means any outdoor fire that is not covered and/or contained within non-flammable barriers. Examples of open-air fires include fireworks and flame and spark-producing tools, such as welding tools. Charcoal or gas-fired barbecue grills are not subject to the law, but open-air charcoal grills in parks must comply. Campfires, bonfires, and backyard fires in fire pits are allowed without a license, but they are considered open-air fires and must follow the 4 PM Burning Law.
There are a few exceptions to the 4 PM Burning Law. Certified Prescribed Burn Managers can apply for exemption permits to perform specific types of burning during the restricted period. Vineyard and orchard owners are also allowed to set fires to protect their crops from damaging frost.
In addition to the 4 PM Burning Law, some localities in Virginia have more restrictive regulations on open-air burning. It is important to check the local laws before starting any fire.
Regarding wood camp stoves, there is some variation depending on the location and the specific type of stove. In general, when a fire ban exists due to a high danger of wildfires, enclosed wood stoves are typically permitted as they provide protection to limit the chances of igniting a wildfire. However, during heightened fire restrictions, even wood stoves may be banned. It is always essential to follow the specific guidelines and regulations in the area where you are camping.
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Chimineas and fire pits are not considered open-air fires
In Virginia, Chimineas and fire pits are not considered open-air fires and are therefore legal, provided they are in good condition to prevent the spread of fire. The fire must be completely contained within a ring of rocks, cinder blocks, a metal ring, or a similar device and covered by a 1/4-inch or smaller metal screen. If these criteria are met, the fire must still be attended at all times, and all flammable materials should be cleared from a 20-foot area around the fire. Campers must also have ready access to water, a rake, and a shovel.
Chimineas and fire pits are not the only exceptions to the open-air fire definition. Recreational fires, for instance, are specifically exempted from the Fire Prevention Code definition of open burning and do not require a Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP). Recreational fires are defined as outdoor fires burning materials other than refuse (i.e., garbage, rubbish, or trade waste) where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill, or barbecue pit. The total fuel area must be three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes.
Virginia's 4 PM Burning Law, in effect from February 15 through April 30 each year, bans open-air burning before 4:00 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of woods or dry grass that could carry fire. Burning is allowed between 4:00 p.m. and midnight, provided the burner takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times.
During heightened fire restrictions, even wood stoves may be banned. However, in some places with seasonal bans on open campfires, enclosed wood stoves are typically permitted as they provide enough protection to limit the chances of igniting a wildfire.
It is important to note that some localities may have more restrictive regulations on outdoor burning than the state's 4 PM Burning Law. All burners are encouraged to check with their locality before starting any outdoor burning.
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Frequently asked questions
Virginia's 4 PM Burning Law bans open-air burning before 4:00 pm if the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass that could carry fire to the woods. Burning is allowed between 4:00 pm and midnight as long as the burner takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times.
Any fire burning freely or that can freely spread. Examples include fireworks and flame and spark-producing tools (such as welding tools).
Propane or ethanol fireplaces, and fires built in commercially-available chimineas or fire pits that are completely contained with a 1/4-inch or smaller metal screen across the top of the firebox.
Yes, it is best not to burn painted wood as it may give off toxic fumes. It is also important to avoid burning wood covered with vines, poison ivy, poison sumac, or poison oak, as this can release irritant oils that can cause lung irritation and severe allergic respiratory problems.
Campers must have ready access to water, a rake, and a shovel. They should also clear all flammable material from around the fire and stay with it until it is completely extinguished or turned off.
