Whatcom County burn ban remains in effect amid “increasingly” dry conditions
A stage 2 burn ban remains in effect in unincorporated Whatcom County after the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office first ordered it on July 19.
The ban prohibits all open burning, including recreational fires, yard debris fires and land clearing fires, according to the Fire Marshal’s Office.
This decision was made due to “increasingly” dry weather conditions. It was done in conjunction with outdoor burning restrictions enacted by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources for all state-protected lands and the U.S. Forest Service burn ban.
Propane fire pits without solid wood-burning material are still allowed, as are charcoal and propane barbecue grills.
Wood-burning fire pits, charcoal pits, or similar enclosures with grates or screens are not considered barbecues and are not allowed.
Violations of burn restrictions will result in a minimum fine of $250. Anyone found responsible for starting an illegal fire will be held financially responsible if it spreads or escapes and requires the fire department to extinguish it, the release said.
The burning restrictions may be reduced if weather conditions allow, the Fire Marshal’s Office said.
.jpg)