The Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue’s Fire Prevention Bureau reminds citizens that there is no open air burning allowed from May 1 through Sept. 30. This restriction comes from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and was also adopted as an ordinance by Suffolk City Council in January 2007 to improve the city’s air quality and to reduce the number of responses for refuse, grass, brush and woodland fires.

The open burn ban includes all types of burning, from burning in a barrel to commercial land clearing operations. The use of special incineration devices is also included. In Suffolk, failure to comply with the burn ban can result in a fine of up to $2,500 and one year in jail as well as a bill for extinguishing the fire.

Citizens are encouraged to take advantage of Suffolk’s bulk pickup service to remove yard debris, or to carry the debris to a local landfill for disposal. In cases where large quantities of debris are involved, property owners may want to consider hiring a contractor to remove the debris.

Commercial fire pits, fire bowls and chimineas are considered recreational fires by city code and do not require a permit. Only approved materials (firewood) may be burned, and the fire must be constantly attended until it is extinguished. Some method of extinguishment must be available for immediate use. The code also states these devices shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and shall not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material. These devices are exempt from the summer burn ban.

For more information, visit www.suffolkva.us/fire or call the Fire Prevention Bureau at 514-4550.