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Due to the continuing elevated fire risk conditions and low fuel moisture levels within Skagit County, the Skagit County Fire Marshal’s Office joins the Washington State Department of Natural Resources in banning outdoor burns, including campfires.

Effective now, Aug. 17, 2023, and until further notice, outdoor burning is banned in unincorporated Skagit County except for permitted agricultural burning.

Enclosed barbeque and propane fire pits are allowed in improved areas, such as residential backyards, and on non-combustible surfaces which are a minimum of ten feet from vegetation or combustible materials. The use of a charcoal barbeque is allowed only on private property. Fire pits or similar enclosures with a metal grate are not considered barbeques. Charcoal and ash should be discarded in a metal container and doused with water. The container should be kept ten feet from vegetation or combustible materials for 72 hours.

If you are in La Conner town limits, check with the fire department for current burn restrictions: 360-466-3125.

This ban does not pertain to agricultural burning permitted through the Northwest Clean Air Agency or silvicultural burning permitted through the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. For information on active permits please contact those agencies directly.

If you have any questions about open burning in Skagit County please contact the Skagit County Fire Marshal’s Office at 360-416-1840, or our website at www.skagitcounty.net/firemarshal.

Source: Skagit County Fire Marshal’s Office