Outdoor Burning

  1. Stage 1 Burn Ban

    In Effect Year Round Stage 1 Burn Ban

Outdoor Burning Brochure


Stage 1 Burn Ban (Prohibited Fires)

Residential burning, which includes burning yard waste and land maintenance, bonfires, 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.

Recreational Fires (the following applies unless a Stage 2 burn ban is put into effect) 

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 South King Fire response area and subject to several rules:

  • Fires must be small, no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height
  • If the fire is built directly on the ground it must have 25 feet of clearance all around
    • Portable outdoor fireplaces do not have to meet these clearances 
  • You can only burn seasoned dry wood. No branch trimmings, lumber or trash
  • Once you are done with the recreational fire, it must be extinguished completely before going back inside.

Smoke From Recreational Fires

You as the property owner/tenant 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. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency defines nuisance smoke as follows: odor is distinct and definite, any unpleasant characteristics recognizable. 

Check the wind direction before burning to help determine that the smoke from your fire will not create a nuisance for surrounding or adjacent property.

Enforcement regarding smoke or odors is a civil matter that is enforced by Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. Please reach out to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency directly by calling 800-552-3565. 

Call Before Burning

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

More Information About Burning

Additional information about outdoor burning can be found on the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency website or contacting them at 800-552-3565.