Burn Ban

Due to warm weather conditions and increased fire danger, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office will be enacting restrictions on open burning in unincorporated Whatcom County starting at 8 a.m. on Sunday, June 15 through Monday, September 15 (with the potential to be extended – weather dependent). All land clearing and yard debris burning must be discontinued at that time and all issued burn permits are suspended. Recreational fires will still be allowed with the landowner’s permission. Recreational fires must meet the following requirements: 

• Must only contain seasoned firewood or charcoal
  • Must be contained in an enclosure no larger than 3’ by 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 two five-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 seven miles per hour. 

Violations of these burn restrictions may result in a minimum $250 fine. In addition, if you have a fire that escapes or needs to be extinguished by the fire department, you may be held financially responsible for fire suppression costs, as well as being subject to criminal charges.