Citizen's Guide

Burning Leaves

The City of Chesapeake's Leaf Burning Policy:

Pursuant to Section F-403.1 of the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, as amended, open air burning of leaves, grass, straw, vines and growing wood is permitted in the City of Chesapeake. However, the guidelines listed here must be adhered to:

1. Some type of water source must be available at the site of the fire to insure it is controlled.
2. Burning during periods of high winds is prohibited.
3. Burning must be conducted in spall piles. If burning in a barrel, it must have a screen.
4. If burning in small piles, a minimum distance of 50 feet from any structures must be maintained. If burning is conducted in a screen covered barrel, a minimum distance of 15 feet must be maintained.
5. A responsible person must be in attendance at the fire at all times. (Definition of Attendance: To maintain full and uninterrupted visual contact with the burn site, remaining within 100 feet of the site at all times.)
6. Burning on the City's right of ways is prohibited. Burning on the City's streets and in road side ditches is also prohibited.
7. From February 15 through April 30, the burning of any bush, leaves, grass, debris or field containing dry grass or other flammable material capable of spreading fire is prohibited except between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 12 Midnight if such burning is conducted within 300 feet of any woodland or brushland.

NOTE: This policy in no way eliminates the liability of the property owner or person conducting the burning from damage caused by the spread of fire. Additionally, should the smoke or odor emmision of any fire become offensive or objectionable, the fire official shall order its extinguishment.

For more information call Fire Prevention Bureau. 382-6566.