PROHIBITED FIRES

Residential burning (yard waste and land maintenance), Bon fires, and Land Clearing fires were banned in our area in 1989. The State determined that sufficient alternatives are available in "urban growth areas" and have eliminated this type of burning altogether.

ALLOWED FIRES

Campfires in designated fire pits at recreation areas such as Dash Point and Saltwater State Park are allowed without a permit. Recreational fires are allowed in the "urban growth areas" and are subject to several rules.

DO I NEED A PERMIT?

Recreational fires are allowed under a GENERAL PERMIT. This means that you do not need to obtain a permit for a specific fire as long as you observe and follow all the rules for a recreational fire. Recreational fires are defined as fires for cooking, pleasure, or ceremonies, in designated areas or on private property.

HOW LARGE CAN THE FIRE BE?

Recreational fires can have a fuel area no larger than three feet in diameter and two feet in height. Open fires on the ground must be at least 50 feet from any structure.

WHAT CAN BE BURNED

Firewood, bare untreated wood (ideally with a moisture content less than 20 percent by weight) and charcoal briquettes. Any other material is prohibited. Note: Driftwood from the beach does not meet the criteria for firewood. The EPA advises against burning driftwood from saltwater.

SMOKE FROM FIRES

You are responsible for the smoke from your fire. If smoke from any outdoor fire impacts or unreasonably interferes with the use or enjoyment of property, it is a nuisance and you must stop burning. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency defines nuisance smoke as follows: odor is distinct and definite, any unpleasant characteristics recognizable. Before burning make sure and check the wind direction to help determine that the smoke from your fire will not create a nuisance for surrounding or adjacent property.

QUICK TIPS

Before burning call 1-800-595-4341. This is a 24 hour recorded message line that will provide information about air quality burn bans.

Make sure you are in a safe location, for open burning you must be at least 50 feet from any structure. This includes wood fences.

Use only clean dry firewood or charcoal and make sure the fire is not larger than 3 feet wide and 2 feet high.

Fires must be attended at all times, never leave a fire without extinguishing it.

Keep a hose handy when burning.

Watch your smoke. If your smoke causes a nuisance to other property owners you must put the fire out.

QUESTIONS OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional information about outdoor burning can be found on the World Wide Web at: www.pscleanair.org, or call the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency at 1-800-552-3565.

If you have any questions you can call the Fire Marshal's Office at (253) 946-7248 during regular business hours.