WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A Stage 1 burn ban will take effect in Whatcom County starting July 1.
The Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office announced the proactive measure on Monday, June 10, in an effort to get ahead of wildfire season.
The ban is expected to be in place through September 14, during which time all land clearing and yard debris burning will be prohibited. All issued burn permits will be suspended as well.
The Fire Marshal’s Office says it has become standard to have burn ban dates set in advance so people can get their burning out of the way without the sudden surprise of a ban suddenly taking effect.
Despite recent moisture in the area, a dry spring and rising temperatures have contributed towards the forecast of an early and active wildfire season.
Recreational fires will still be allowed, though they must meet certain requirements.
Below are the requirements for any recreational fires in Whatcom County:
• Must only contain seasoned firewood or charcoal
• Must be contained in an enclosure no larger than 3’ X 3’ across, and must be a minimum 16″ high, made of cement blocks, stones, or steel.
• Beach fires (where allowed) can be dug into an 8″ deep pit, surrounded by 4″ high enclosure of rocks.
• Fires must be 25’ from structures, timber, and combustible materials.
• A charged garden hose or (2) 5-gallon buckets full of water to be next to the fire.
• A shovel or rake capable of stirring and extinguishing the fire to be on-site.
• Recreational fires are allowed after dark, if attended by someone 16 years or older at all times.
• Fires must be attended until out cold.
• No burning when winds exceed 7 MPH.
