State burn ban begins July 1

Published 5:40 pm Wednesday, March 19, 2014

A statewide burn ban on all DNR-protected lands runs July 1-Sept. 30. This includes all forestlands in Washington under DNR fire protection, including currently permitted burns. Exceptions are:

• Recreational fires in approved fire pits within designated state, county, municipal or other campgrounds

• DNR-approved prescribed fires to enhance or restore fire-dependent ecosystems and forest health

• As approved in writing by DNR with compelling reasons for exception.

The use of gas and propane self-contained stoves and barbecues is allowed under the ban.

The burn ban will take precedence over all other burn bans currently in effect on DNR-protected forestlands. For daily updates, call 800-323-BURN or visit www.fortress.wa.gov/dnr/firedanger/BurnRisk.aspx.