In brief the 4:00 PM Burning Law states: No burning before 4:00 PM February 15 through April 30 of each year, if the fire is in, or within 300 feet of woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass or other flammable material. The leading cause of forest fires in Virginia continues to be debris burning.
Because forest fuels have cured during the winter months, the fire danger is higher in early spring than in summer when the forest and grasses are green with new growth. The 4:00 PM Burning Law is one of the most effective tools used in the prevention of forest fires. Localities may have more restrictive outdoor burning laws.

"Please help the Virginia Department of Forestry prevent forest fires by obeying the forest fire laws, and by remembering that the 4:00 PM Burning Law is in effect from February 15 through April 30" said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal.