The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet reminds residents to be alert, as the fall wildfire hazard season began Oct. 1, with outdoor burning restrictions now in place throughout the state.
“This fall, we ask that everyone does their part to keep our families and communities safe,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Stay aware, use good judgment, and always follow outdoor burning laws that help us protect each other and prevent wildfires.”
Kentucky’s outdoor burning law prohibits burning between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. local time, if the fire is within 150 feet of any woodland, brushland, or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials. These restrictions are in effect every fall (Oct. 1 – Dec. 15) and spring (Feb. 15 – April 30) to help prevent wildfires.
The Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) responds to 850 to 1,000 wildfires annually across the state.
Studies show that 99 percent of wildfires in Kentucky are caused by human activity. Arsonists start over half of the wildfires, and the second leading cause is debris fires that escape. If a fire escapes from the burning of debris, immediately contact the nearest KDF Field Office or your local fire department.
“Fuel moisture of vegetation varies across the state as some areas have experienced recent rainfall while others remain very dry, especially near the southern border of our state,” said State Forester Brandon Howard. “This uneven weather pattern increases the risk of wildfires, with dry regions seeing greater potential for fires to start and spread rapidly. Regardless of your situation, good judgment should always be used when working with fire, as the fall season escalates wildfire potential. KDF is prepared, and our firefighters are trained and ready to quickly and safely respond to wildfires when they occur.”
Kentucky has more than 12 million acres of forests, nearly half the state. Those forests are the foundation of a major economic force in the state. In 2024-2025, Kentucky’s forest products industry contributed $20 billion to our economy and provided more than 28,000 jobs.
Report suspected arson to the nearest Kentucky State Police Post or call the Target Arson Hotline at 800-27-ARSON.
For more information on KDF and outdoor burning, go to https://bit.ly/OutdoorBurning.
Kentucky Division of Forestry