Leaf burning is permissible in Albemarle County (except between February 15 and April 30 when the 4:00 pm burn law is in effect) under the following conditions:

• If there is an occupied dwelling within 300 feet of the proposed burn site, you must have permission from the occupant of that dwelling before burning.
• All burn sites must be located at least 50 feet from any structures.
• All fires must be attended until they are totally extinguished.
• Sufficient means of extinguishment must be immediately at hand during a fire.

Other safety reminders include:

• Taking weather conditions such as wind speed and direction into account before deciding whether to begin any burning.
• Insuring that there is sufficient clearance around the burn site to prevent a fire from spreading to nearby combustible materials such as dried grass and considering overhead limbs and utility lines.
• Keeping the fire attended to until it is completely extinguished, with water, rakes or other firefighting tools available if needed.

In all cases of leaf burning, fires should be kept small and manageable.  Anyone wanting more information on the County Burn Regulations should call 296-5833.