Spring fire burning restrictions begin in W.Va. - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

Spring fire burning restrictions begin in W.Va.

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CHARLESTON (AP) -

West Virginia's spring forest fire season is under way.

The season began Friday and continues through May 31. Outdoor burning during this period is prohibited between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. to prevent forest fires.

State law requires outdoor fires to have a ring or safety strip at least 10 feet wide around the debris pile. The Division of Forestry says outdoor burning must be limited to leaves, brush, yard clippings and other vegetative materials.

Residents who allow a fire to escape and cause a forest fire or wildfire face a fine of up to $1,000, along with a $200 civil penalty.

Commercial burning is allowed in the daytime with a $125 permit for each site issued by the Division of Forestry.

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