Proper management of debris burning is essential for preventing wildfires and ensuring community safety. The Kentucky Division of Forestry emphasizes the importance of adhering to safe practices when burning debris. Below are key guidelines and regulations to help you burn safely and responsibly.

Safe Debris Burning Guidelines

To minimize fire risks, follow these recommendations when conducting debris burning:

• Weather Conditions: Only burn on days with high humidity and calm winds to reduce the chance of the fire spreading.
• Wind Precautions: If winds pick up, extinguish the fire immediately to prevent it from moving to adjacent areas.
• Size of Burn Piles: Keep burn piles small to allow for quick control if needed.
• Monitoring: Continuously monitor burn piles until they are fully extinguished.
• Control Measures: Always keep a source of water and/or a shovel nearby to maintain control over the fire.
• Fire Breaks: Establish a firebreak of at least 10 feet around the burn pile by clearing vegetation.
• Distance: Ensure burn piles are located a safe distance from other burn piles and structures.
• Avoid Utilities: Do not place burn piles under or near utilities, and avoid burning debris beneath trees or overhead materials that may catch fire.

Forest Fire Hazard Seasons

Be aware that outdoor burning is restricted during specific Forest Fire Hazard Seasons as outlined in KRS 149.400:

• Spring Forest Fire Hazard Season: February 15 – April 30
• Fall Forest Fire Hazard Season: October 1 – December 1

During these seasons, it is illegal to burn anything within 150 feet of woodlands between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m