UPDATE: Open Air Burning Ban in Effect for Front Royal and Warren County Starting November 6

UPDATE:  Effective 7:30 AM on November 8, 2025, the open-air burn ban previously in place for Front Royal and Warren County has been officially rescinded. The decision follows recent rainfall and improved atmospheric conditions, according to the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services.

Residents may now resume open-air burning and outdoor fire activities, as long as they comply with local and state regulations.

Important Reminders:

• Only yard waste may be burned.

• It remains illegal to burn trash, plastics, or household materials.

• Open-air burning remains prohibited in the High Knob and Blue Mountain communities of Warren County, regardless of weather conditions.

Officials encourage all residents to burn responsibly and stay informed of local fire regulations, especially during the fall season when dry leaves and brush can still pose a fire risk.

For more information on safe burning practices, visit www.warrencountyfire.com.

Due to dangerously dry conditions and increased fire risk, a complete ban on open-air burning has been issued for Front Royal and Warren County, effective Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. This proactive safety measure has been enacted by the Warren County Fire Marshal in accordance with the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code and will remain in place until conditions improve.

The ban prohibits all forms of open burning, including:

• Bonfires
• Campfires
• Ceremonial fires
• Burning barrels
• Land-clearing or brush fires

Residents can still use barbecue grills, smokers, or any device that emits smoke through a chimney or stack.

“These extreme atmospheric and fuel conditions create a serious risk of wildfires,” said Assistant Fire Chief Gerry R. Maiatico of Warren County Fire and Rescue Services. “We’re urging all residents to take this seriously. Even a small spark can have devastating consequences.”

Violations of the open-air burning ban may result in Class 1 misdemeanor charges, which can carry a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and/or fines of up to $2,500.

Fire Safety Tips During the Burn Ban

Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions during this dry period:

• Don’t discard cigarettes from moving vehicles—use ashtrays.
• Avoid pulling vehicles onto dry grass, as hot exhaust can spark fires.
• Check safety chains on trailers to avoid sparks.
• Avoid outdoor cooking; if necessary, keep grills on concrete and away from buildings.
• Soak charcoal or wood ashes before disposing of them.
• Inspect lawnmowers and farm equipment for functioning spark arresters.
• Create a defensible space around your home by mowing and watering the grass.
• Clear dry debris from roofs, gutters, and landscaping.
• Store flammable materials, such as firewood, well away from your home.
• Report hazardous tree limbs near power lines to your electric company.

Stay Informed

County and emergency management officials will continue to monitor weather and fuel conditions. The public will be notified as soon as the ban is lifted.

For updates, visit www.warrencountyfire.com or contact:

Gerry R. Maiatico
Assistant Fire Chief
Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services
📍 200 Skyline Vista Drive, Suite 200, Front Royal, VA
📧 gmaiatico@warrencountyfire.com

Please share this information with friends, family, and neighbors. Community awareness is key to preventing wildfires.

(Taken from press release)