← District of Columbia burn ban rules›Open Burning Rules

District of Columbia Open Burning Rules (2026)

Restricted: Open burning is prohibited in the District of Columbia under 20 DCMR § 604, with limited exceptions (recreational/cooking fires, certain official uses).

RestrictedVerified Jun 19, 2026

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Official source: doee.dc.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Open Burning Rules in states bordering District of Columbia

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

MarylandConditional
In or within 200 ft of woodland, open air burning is allowed only 4 p.m.–midnight (anytime if snow-covered) with a 10-ft cleared firebreak, on-site supervision, and equipment present. A DNR permit is required; burns over 1 acre need a burn plan.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
VirginiaRestricted
Statewide '4 PM Burning Law' (Feb 15–Apr 30) bans open-air burning before 4 PM within 300 ft of woods/dry grass; burning allowed 4 PM–midnight if attended. Outside that season open burning is permitted with precautions; localities may add bans. No state permit, but check locality.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dof.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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