RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia's statewide burning law takes effect on Saturday, prohibiting outdoor burning between midnight and 4 p.m. throughout the spring fire season.

The law, effective from Feb. 15 through April 30, applies to debris burning, campfires, and open-air charcoal grills within 300 feet of woods or dry grass. Violation of the law is a Class-3 misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500.

This law does not apply to charcoal or gas-fired barbecue grills. Some exceptions to the law are made for campfires at Virginia State Parks.

To learn more about Virginia’s 4 p.m. burning law and fire prevention, visit the Virginia Department of Forestry's website .

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