Open burning restricted in parts of Whatcom County

By Stefanie Donahue

As a result of recent weather conditions, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office issued a ban on open burning in unincorporated parts of the county.

Warm weather and winds are credited with making parts of the land vulnerable to fire. The ban includes land clearing and yard debris burning, even if a permit has been issued.

The news comes just a few days after responders with North Whatcom Fire and Rescue responded to a brush fire along Blaine and Birch Bay-Lynden roads. A few residents were forced to evacuate and no damage was reported.

Recreational fires are permitted under the recent open fire ban at campgrounds and improved properties with permission of the landowner.

Violations of the ban could result in a fine up to $250.

For more information, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office can be reached at 360/778-5903. You can also visit whatcomcounty.us/381/Fire-Marshal.