AGENDA DATE: 12/10/2025
TITLE:
Schedule a Public Hearing for An Ordinance to Amend County Code Chapter 6, Fire Protection, Article IV
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Schedule a Public hearing to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend County Code, Chapter 6, Fire Protection, Article IV.
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Maddox, Pelliccia, Bohdan
PRESENTER (S): N/A
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: The Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code allows localities to establish regulations for the burning of brush and open-air fires. In conjunction with the regulations in the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, Albemarle County Code, Chapter 6, Fire Protection, Article IV, establishes regulations governing the burning of brush in Albemarle County. Amending an ordinance in the Albemarle County Code requires a public hearing prior to adoption of the amendments.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Safety & Well-being - Nurture a safe and healthy community.
DISCUSSION: Albemarle County Fire Rescue staff reviewed the County's current code requirements for the burning of brush, etc. Based on staff review and feedback during a Board of Supervisor's work session on June 18, 2025, the following changes are proposed:
1. Update the definition of bonfire and requirements related to a bonfire.
2. Add definitions for building and structure.
3. Clarify the definition of recreational open burning.
4. Add escalating penalties for repeated offenses.
5. Add language that the Albemarle County Fire Official can ban burning based on weather, atmospheric conditions or local circumstances making such fires hazardous.
BUDGET IMPACT: Based on staff analysis, there would be no budgetary impact.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Board schedule a public hearing to consider the adoption of the proposed ordinance to amend County Code Chapter 6, Fire Protection, Article IV, to revise burning of brush regulations (Attachment A).
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