Yakima County Fire Marshal Extends Restrictions To Residential Outdoor Burn Ban Monday, July 29 – Monday, September 30
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, July 29, 2024
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 issued new restrictions to the county-wide burn ban for unincorporated Yakima County. Effective immediately, all outdoor burning is banned.
The additional restriction is in response to the active and destructive wildfires burning in Yakima County, and the hazards posed by high temperatures and dry conditions. On July 25 the Board of County Commissioners issued a Declaration of Emergency due to the Rimrock Retreat Fire, which has burned over 24,629 acres and as of today is only 4 percent contained.
Only a few exceptions remain under the current ban. Manufactured Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or natural gas portable outdoor devices, cooking appliances, and patio warmers are exempt from the ban.
Under the previous ban, recreational in-ground campfire pits smaller than 3’ X 3’ feet in size and AG burning were allowed.
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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