Yakima County Fire Marshal Expands Residential Outdoor Burn Ban Monday, July 1 – Monday, September 30
Contacts: Monica Beltran, Public Services Public Information Officer
509-574-2300
Doug Werts, Yakima County Fire Marshal
509-574-2300
Todd Hottell, Yakima County Deputy Fire Marshal
509-574-2300
YAKIMA, WA – In partnership with the Yakima County Fire Chiefs Association, the Yakima County Fire Marshal has expanded the county-wide burn ban for unincorporated Yakima County This change takes effect Monday, July 1, 2024, to include bonfires. The previous ban included only yard waste.
In addition, burning debris or processed lumber is not allowed.
The ban is in response to anticipated high temperatures and dry conditions. As in previous years, it aims to ensure that human-caused fires will not divert the resources needed to fight wildfires. Yakima County is working with federal and state agencies and Yakima County Fire Districts to help protect citizens, property, and the environment from the devastation of uncontrolled fires.
Exceptions: Agricultural field burning or orchard burning may be allowed when permitted through the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency (YRCAA).
Excluded from the ban are outdoor fireplaces, manufactured portable outdoor devices, cooking appliances, patio warmers, and in-ground campfire pits smaller than 3 feet by 3 feet in size are allowed. Ensure the area is clear of dry vegetation and burn only dry, seasoned wood. Keep water readily available and never leave a fire unattended. If it's windy, don’t burn.
Residential outdoor burning in violation of 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, please contact the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency (YRCAA) at 509-834-2050.
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