In response to heightened fire risks caused by exceptionally dry and windy conditions across the state, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced a statewide burn ban, effective immediately. This decision is aimed at preventing further wildfires, which have already surged beyond average numbers this season. The ban will be in effect in all Maryland counties until the Maryland Forest Service deems that sufficient precipitation has reduced the statewide threat of wildfires.
The authority to implement this ban stems from a state law enacted in 2007, which allows the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources to take action when the Maryland Forest Service advises that landscape and weather conditions present a significant fire hazard. The current ban prohibits all open-air burning, including campfires and charcoal grills, though propane grills are still permitted under state law. Open-air burning, as defined by the law, is any fire in the open or in a receptacle other than equipment connected to a stack or chimney.
Maryland DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz emphasized the importance of this measure: “We do not make these determinations lightly and understand this may require some people to adjust their plans. However, a ban of this magnitude is necessary to protect the lives and property of Maryland residents and visitors, as well as the state’s natural resources.” This precaution allows for statewide monitoring and enforcement, crucial given the current fire risks. DNR officials are closely monitoring wildfire risks to determine when it will be safe to lift the ban.
Seven Maryland counties—Dorchester, Garrett, Frederick, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester—had already imposed local fire restrictions, and several other states and counties in the region have also enacted similar measures. The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings, signaling extreme fire risks due to dry, windy conditions, in multiple Maryland counties, including Washington, Frederick, and Baltimore.
The burn ban comes in response to data collected by the Maryland Forest Service:
• Wildfires: Since October 1, the Maryland Forest Service has responded to more than 24 wildfires covering 75 acres—three times the 10-year average.
• Precipitation Shortfall: Maryland received less than 25% of average October precipitation, with some areas experiencing little or no rainfall. Only Garrett and Allegany counties saw slightly higher, though still below-average, rainfall.
• Forecast: The Climate Prediction Center’s 6-10 day forecast indicates below-normal precipitation for much of Maryland.
The Maryland Forest Service has a long history of implementing these bans during times of drought, with previous restrictions occurring in 1988, 1995, 1999, and 2006. Each restriction has varied in duration, lasting from one to eight weeks based on weather conditions.
This burn ban is enforced by authorized DNR agents and state police officers, and violators face a first-time citation fine of $125. While fines are a deterrent, the primary purpose of the ban is to underscore the urgency of acting responsibly to protect lives, property, and Maryland’s natural resources.
To stay updated on the burn ban and wildfire risks in Maryland, visit the official Maryland DNR announcement here.