Seasonal restrictions on outdoor burning will likely be lifted sometime in October, depending on fire officials’ assessment of the conditions. When they are, remember to follow recreational fire requirements to burn legally and as cleanly as possible.
What is a recreational fire? Recreational fires include camp and cooking fires, backyard barbecues, chimineas, and other patio warmers that burn charcoal, natural firewood, or manufactured logs and pellets. These fires are limited to private property and designated areas on public lands when restrictions are not in place.
- Keep it small, not tall: Fires must not exceed three feet across and two feet high (think hula hoop size.)
- 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 a gas or electric device instead of wood- burning, especially if you live near neighbors.
Other types of outdoor burning in Spokane County – In outlying areas of Spokane County, some limited burning of natural vegetation is still allowed. Read more about the other types of outdoor burning and requirements here.
