Wildland Arson
Arson is the leading cause of forest fires in Kentucky. Ninety-nine percent of all wildland fires in Kentucky are caused by humans. Some fires are accidental like unmonitored debris burning, campfires and sparks from farm equipment, but sadly, many are intentionally set. In fact, nearly 60 percent of all wildfires in Kentucky are caused by arsonists. These fires damage more than just forestland. They threaten homes, businesses and lives. Please protect your property, your community, your life and the many firefighters that put their lives on the line battling these needless fires.
Forest Arson is a Felony
Intentionally setting fire to land owned by someone else is a felony under state law (KRS 149.380) and is punishable by up to five years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines.
To Report Forest Arson
Forest arson should be reported by calling the Target Arson Hotline at 1-800-27-ARSON. Notifiers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 if the information provided leads to the arrest and indictment of an arsonist. Suspected forest arson may also be reported to local law enforcement officials, the Kentucky State Police or the Kentucky Division of Forestry field office that serves the area where the fire occurred.
Helpful information includes location of fire, descriptions of vehicles and license plate numbers, physical descriptions of individuals and any other information pertaining to illegal burning.