It’s Spring Fire Season in Kentucky — Know What You Can and Can’t Do

After all the devastation we've seen in California from the Eaton and Palisades Fires, I wouldn't be surprised if many Americans are more vigilant when it comes to burning stuff outdoors during dry seasons. Unfortunately, I also wouldn't be surprised if some just kept doing what they've always done and ignored certain very important directives.

Please don't do the latter; we already have video of a fire burning in Phelps which is in eastern Kentucky.

Carolina Fires

Honestly, the California fires should really be all anyone needs to step up their Smokey the Bear game, but if not, take a look at what's been happening in the Carolinas and Georgia. They aren't Kentucky, but those fires ARE in the Appalachians.

Check out this wider view. Terrifying.

If you think that because it's more humid on this side of the United States that we can't have the same type of catastrophe they experienced on the West Coast just a couple of months ago, you're wrong.

Kentucky Fire Season

We are currently in the middle of Kentucky's spring fire season (February 15th through April 30th), and, as you saw, there's already one they've had to deal with. With that in mind, here's the official word from the Kentucky State Legislature:

It shall be unlawful for any person to set fire to, or to procure another to set fire to, any flammable material capable of spreading fire, located in or within one hundred fifty feet (150') of any woodland or brushland, except between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., prevailing local time, or when the ground is covered with snow.

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet also shares guidelines about what cannot be burned in the Commonwealth. Plus, you should always check local ordinances, as they may differ from county to county.

With all the rain we've seen here in western Kentucky over the last month-plus--and with more to come--you may be thinking this isn't a terribly big issue at the moment. Many more intelligent and knowledgeable people will be more than happy to tell you that you are wrong.