Whatcom County issues stage 1 burn ban; where it’s in effect and what it means
Whatcom County officials announced a stage 1 burn ban for the county’s Columbia Valley urban growth area Monday. The burn ban includes Peaceful Valley and Paradise Lakes developments.
While the risk of fires spreading is currently low, the Northwest Clean Air Agency is forecasting cold, calm air will prevent wood smoke from clearing out, so the ban is intended to help improve air quality.
A stage 1 burn ban means residents are prohibited from using fireplaces or uncertified wood stoves unless it is their only source of heat. All outdoor burning is prohibited, including in areas where outdoor burning is usually allowed.
High amounts of smoke can be harmful, especially to children, adults age 65 or older, and people with heart or lung problems, the Northwest Clean Air Agency said in a news release.
Smoke pollution can trigger asthma attacks, make breathing difficult and make heart and lung problems worse.
“Air quality may improve throughout the day. But smoke levels will build as temperatures drop and more people light fires to heat homes,” the news release states. “If you must burn wood for heat, burn small, hot fires. Check your chimney 20 minutes after lighting a fire to ensure that it is not smoking, and if it is, take action. Do not let fires smolder overnight.”
This story was originally published December 29, 2025 at 1:28 PM.
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