Submitted by San Juan County

A burn ban began at noon, Tuesday, Aug. 21 in San Juan County. Elevated temperatures for extended periods and the lack of precipitation has created a high fire danger in San Juan County, and across the region. San Juan County will be prohibiting all outdoor burning with the exception of propane barbecues.

No outdoor fires of any kind are allowed. This includes recreational fires as well as the use of backyard fire kettles, chimneys or fire pits.

Similar bans are already in effect throughout all lands protected by the Department of Natural Resources and throughout Island, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties.

It is worth noting that Washington State Parks may have different rules for burning. Check their website for burning rules at https://parks.state.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/5654/Statewide-Burn-Ban?bidId=

These changes to burning restrictions are likely to continue into the fall when the seasonal rains return. Check the San Juan County Fire Marshal’s Office website for the most up to date burning information at https://www.sanjuanco.com/1091/Fire-Risk-Burn-Permits.