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HAGERSTOWN, MD (November 1, 2024) – The Washington County’s Office of Emergency Management is relaying an important announcement from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR): effective today, November 1, 2024, a statewide ban on open-air burning is in place across all Maryland counties due to heightened wildfire risk. The ban will remain until further notice, with the Maryland Forest Service determining its duration based on future precipitation.
Exceptionally dry conditions have created an elevated risk of wildfires, resulting in an unusually high number of incidents throughout Maryland. As a result, the DNR has enacted the ban to reduce potential fire hazards in forests and open spaces across the state. This restriction prohibits open-air burning, including campfires and charcoal grilling; however, propane grills are still permitted.
“Implementing a ban of this scale is not taken lightly,” stated Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “We understand this may require adjustments to plans, but it is essential to protect lives, property, and Maryland’s natural landscape. The significant wildfire risk leaves us with no alternative. This measure allows us to monitor and enforce statewide wildfire prevention during these dangerous conditions. We’ll continue to monitor daily, aiming to lift these restrictions as soon as it’s safe.”
Since October 1, 2024, the Maryland Forest Service has responded to over 24 wildfires that have burned a total of 75 acres — well above the 10-year average. The state has experienced less than 25% of typical October precipitation, leaving Maryland’s landscape highly susceptible to fires. The Climate Prediction Center forecasts below-normal rainfall over the next week, prolonging the fire threat.
The statewide burn ban is enforceable under the Annotated Code of Maryland, Natural Resources Article, Title 5-720, and authorized agents from the DNR and state law enforcement officers will enforce it. Fines for a first violation start at $125. However, the primary intent of this ban is to underscore the gravity of the current fire risk and to encourage public cooperation in reducing wildfire threats.
The Washington County Office of Emergency Management urges all residents to comply with the ban to help protect our communities and natural resources. Updates on the ban and conditions will be provided as they become available.
For more information on this ban and the state’s wildfire prevention efforts, please visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website at www.dnr.maryland.gov.
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