The Division of Forestry is responsible for fighting wildland fires on private lands. 

The protection of the commonwealth's forests from destructive wildfire is essential for the citizens to enjoy the multiple benefits provided by these forests. Since 1977, the Division of Forestry has averaged 2,031 fires that burned 81,025 acres annually. Almost 90 percent of these fires are caused by humans, with over 55 percent caused by arson.

The Kentucky Division of Forestry is mandated by law to "provide for organized fire protection." The state system provides for wildland fire detection, suppression and law enforcement. Nine Division of Forestry districts in the state carry out this protection system. The Division of Forestry supplements its fire suppression capabilities through cooperation with rural fire departments by providing them with training, equipment and vehicles. The division also utilizes Department of Corrections crews and Kentucky National Guard personnel and equipment during fire emergencies. These activities are funded in part by a county assessment of 2 cents for each timberland acre.

The division promotes fire prevention through activities such as enforcement of the forest fire laws, school fire prevention programs, community events, Smokey Bear appearances and distribution of fire prevention information. Radio and television interviews as well as newspaper and magazine articles are also used to educate citizens about fire prevention The division is now implementing the National Firewise Communities Program that educates homeowners on reducing the fire risk to their property.

Increasingly, the division faces a wildland/urban interface problem. Wildland/urban interface problems occur where forests meet urban areas causing an increased risk of property damage due to wildland fire. Often division personnel have to protect and secure homes from a forest fire before they can actually take actions to suppress the fire.