Open Flame
Open Flame/Burn Permit Guidelines
In accordance with William & 玛丽's Fire & Life Safety Program, a permit is required before the ignition of any open flame on state owned property. Permit applications must be made in writing seven business days prior to the requested day.
Some activities that require an Open Flame/Burn Permit:
- Recognized range or wildlife management practices.
- Prevention to control disease or pests.
- Providing heat for outdoor workers.
- Campfires/fire pits.
- Artwork and/or performances involving flames.
- Cooking involving flames (indoor and outdoor).
- Torches/cressets.
- Religious ceremonies or activities involving open flames, candles or incense.
Restrictions
- Location: Fires in approved containers must be more than 25 feet from any structure. Extreme caution should be used to prevent the ignition of any nearby trees, foliage, grassland, vehicles, equipment, or any other object adjacent, above or below the area of the fire.
- Materials: Fuel for fires must consist only of seasoned dry firewood and be ignited with a small quantity of paper. Do not use flammable or combustible liquids or gases, reactive chemicals, rubber, plastics or other unapproved ignition methods.
- Attendance: Any open flames must be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. The permit requestor is expected to be at the permitted event to ensure adherence to the permit conditions.
- Fire suppression: One of the following, or the equivalent, must be immediately available and ready for use in the area of the fire:
- At least one portable fire extinguisher (e.g. 10-lb. ABC multi-purpose dry chemical).
- Other approved fire extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel or garden hose, to be provided by requestor.
- Training: Portable fire extinguisher training is required for those supervising an open flame/burn activity. If you have not received this training, contact safety@wm.edu to request training.
- When required, the EH&S Office will notify Williamsburg Fire Department to be on-site prior to an open burning.
