← Maryland burn ban rules›Open Burning Rules

Maryland Open Burning Rules (2026)

Conditional: 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.

ConditionalVerified Jun 18, 2026

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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.

Official source: dnr.maryland.gov →

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

Open Burning Rules in states bordering Maryland

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

DelawareRestricted
Most open burning is banned during Ozone Season, May 1–Sept 30 (7 DE Admin Code 1113, DNREC Air Quality). Residential brush burning allowed Oct 1–Apr 30, 8am–4pm, with fire-board notice. Burning leaves/grass/trash always illegal; banned on Air Quality Action Days.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnrec.delaware.gov · Full Delaware rule →
District of ColumbiaRestricted
Open burning is prohibited in the District of Columbia under 20 DCMR § 604, with limited exceptions (recreational/cooking fires, certain official uses).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: doee.dc.gov · Full District of Columbia rule →
PennsylvaniaConditional
Open burning of debris is regulated locally; counties and the Governor can impose burn bans (county bans last up to 30 days, extendable). Propane/gas stoves, charcoal grills, and tobacco are exempt from county bans. Confirm with local authorities first.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania 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 →
West VirginiaRestricted
During spring (Mar 1–May 31) and fall (Oct 1–Dec 31) fire seasons, outdoor burning is banned 7 AM–5 PM; legal only 5 PM–7 AM with all fire out by 7 AM. Requires a cleared 10-ft safety ring and attendance; violation up to $1,000 fine. Allowed anytime with 1+ inch snow cover.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: wvforestry.com · Full West Virginia rule →

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