Burn ban in place for the county

The Whatcom County Fire Marshal imposed a total residential burn ban on August 18. Until further notice, all open burning is restricted in unincorporated Whatcom County.

The news comes just as the Washington Department of Natural Resources instituted a ban on burning throughout all state protected lands. Whatcom County is currently listed as “high” for fire danger.

The ban prohibits yard debris fires, land clearing fires, recreational fires and all forms of outdoor burning, with exception of commercially available barbecues.

Violations can be cause for a minimum $250 fine.

Any questions can be directed to the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office at 360/778-5900. The Whatcom County Burn Information Line can be reached by calling 360/778-5903.