REVISED NOTICE

Yakima County

Residential Outdoor Burn Ban Update

Sunday, June 1 – Monday, September 1

Contacts:         Monica Beltran, Public Services Public Information Officer

              509-574-2300

              Doug Werts, Yakima County Fire Marshal

              509-574-2300

              Todd Hottell, Public Services Deputy Fire Marshal

              509-574-2300

YAKIMA, WA – The Yakima County Fire Marshal has issued a revised county-wide burn ban for unincorporated Yakima County. The ban takes effect Sunday, June 1, 2025, and expires Monday, September 1, 2025. As in previous years, outdoor open burning, including bonfires and recreational fires, or burning vegetation and waste materials, is not allowed. However, residential outdoor activities such as charcoal barbeques and wood pellet smokers may be used.

“There was misinformation in the original notice that I would like to correct,” stated Yakima County Fire Marshal Doug Werts. “Barbeques, including propane, natural gas, and charcoal-fueled, are allowed during the burn ban. Wood pellet barbeques, wood pellet smokers, and outdoor fireplaces are also allowed.” 

Other allowable uses include portable outdoor devices manufactured for cooking and/or campfires, and patio warmers.

“We always want to balance public safety with common sense,” Mr. Werts added. Our goal is to ensure human-caused fires will not divert the resources needed to fight wildfires. At the same time, residents should reasonably expect to grill or enjoy a chiminea in their backyards during fire season.”

The Fire Marshal also noted that fireworks are prohibited unless permitted in unincorporated Yakima County. For firework regulations within incorporated city and town limits or within the Yakama Nation, please check directly with that jurisdiction. 

Agricultural burning is allowed when permitted through the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency (YRCAA).  

Residential outdoor burning violating the local ban may be subject to a fine of $1,000, arrest, and/or jail, and should be reported to the Yakima County Sheriff's Office at (509) 574-2500. 

For information on permitted agricultural burning, contact the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency (YRCAA) at 509-834-2050.

For additional information, please call (509) 574-2300 or email Monica.Beltran@co.yakima.wa.us.

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