Effective 10:00 a.m., April 29, 2026
Prince Edward County Lifts Local Emergency and Countywide Burn Ban
Following recent rainfall that has significantly reduced fire risk conditions, the County of Prince Edward has lifted the Local Emergency and rescinded the countywide ban on all open-air fires and outdoor burning, effective 10:00 a.m. on April 29, 2026.
The burn ban, originally enacted on April 15, 2026, was implemented due to severe drought conditions and an elevated risk of rapid-fire growth and spread throughout the County.
“In consultation with the Chair of the Board of Supervisors, the Prince Edward Area Firefighters Association, the Virginia Department of Forestry, and County Emergency Management, the County is lifting the burn ban following rainfall that has reduced the immediate fire risk,” said Douglas P. Stanley, County Administrator and Director of Emergency Management. “While conditions have improved, citizens are still urged to exercise caution when conducting any outdoor burning to prevent unnecessary fire incidents.”
With the termination of the Declaration of Local Emergency, open-air burning is now permitted in accordance with applicable state and local regulations.
Residents are reminded to:
- Monitor weather conditions before burning
- Never leave fires unattended
- Keep a water source or suppression equipment readily available
- Ensure all fires are completely extinguished
The County encourages all citizens to remain mindful that conditions can change quickly and to use caution when burning.
For additional information, please contact the Farmville-Prince Edward Emergency Communications Center at 434-392-3339.
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