Fall burn ban restricts daytime fires in Kentucky through Dec. 15

Residents in Fort Mitchell, Crestview Hills, Edgewood, Villa Hills, Crescent Springs, Lakeside Park and Fort Wright face daytime outdoor burning restrictions through Dec. 15 under Kentucky's fall wildfire hazard season.

State law prohibits burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. if the fire is within 150 feet of any woodland, brushland or field containing dry grass or other flammable material. The restriction took effect Oct. 1 and runs through Dec. 15, as NKY Tribune reported, citing the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet.

Those Kenton County communities may also have local ordinances that go beyond the state rules. The Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) advises residents to check with their local fire department and county government before any outdoor burning.

Kentucky generally prohibits burning garbage and most other waste, including plastics, tires and treated or painted wood. Natural plant material such as brush and woody debris may generally be burned when state seasonal restrictions and any local rules are followed.

The KDF responds to 850 to 1,000 wildfires statewide each year. Studies cited by the agency show 99 percent of Kentucky wildfires are caused by human activity. Arson accounts for more than half. Escaped debris fires are the second-leading cause.

"Good judgment should always be used when working with fire, as the fall season escalates wildfire potential," State Forester Brandon Howard said in the Monday, Oct. 5 announcement. Howard noted that fuel moisture varies across the state, with some areas drier than others after uneven rainfall.

Gov. Andy Beshear urged residents to follow the burning laws, saying the restrictions help protect communities and prevent wildfires.

If a debris fire escapes, residents should contact their local fire department or the nearest KDF field office. Suspected arson can be reported to the nearest Kentucky State Police post or the Target Arson Hotline at 800-27-ARSON.

The fall hazard season ends Dec. 15. The same restrictions apply each year during a spring season that runs Feb. 15 through April 30.