Seasonal restrictions were recently lifted on outdoor burning. Before burning, make sure you are aware of the requirements:
- Keep it small, not tall: Fires must not exceed three feet across and two feet high.
- Fuel it right: Use only approved fuels: charcoal, natural gas, propane, manufactured logs/pellets, firewood. Firewood must be dry, clean, and natural (untreated). The fire cannot be used for the disposal of anything, including paper, natural vegetation, etc.
- Stay clear of structures: Outdoor wood-fueled recreational fires must be a minimum of 25′ away from any combustibles and structures.
- Stand guard and extinguish: A person capable of extinguishing the fire must attend it at all times. Completely extinguish the fire before leaving it.
- Ask first: Permission from a landowner (or owner’s designated representative) must be obtained before having a recreational fire. The fire may not cause a smoke and/or odor nuisance to neighbors. Check for other rules that may apply to your use of a recreational fire, such as homeowner association covenants, rental agreements, etc.
- Mind the ban: Outdoor wood burning is restricted during periods of poor air quality or fire danger conditions. Air quality agencies issue restrictions-based air quality concerns. Fire officials may restrict outdoor burning based on fire danger conditions (typically summer into fall). Always check Current Burning Conditions or call: 509-477-4710. You may also subscribe to email notifications of burn restrictions.
- Be a good neighbor: It is never okay to smoke out your neighbors. If smoke from your recreational fire bothers your neighbors, poses a threat or causes damage to their property, or otherwise causes a nuisance, you must put it out immediately. For these reasons, you may wish to consider purchasing gas or electric devices versus wood-burning units, especially if you live near neighbors.
