Stage 1 Burn Ban Begins June 30 in Unincorporated King County Yard Debris and Land-Clearing Fires Prohibited

King County Fire Marshal Eric Urban announced a Stage 1 Burn Ban for unincorporated areas starting June 30, aimed at reducing fire risks during the dry summer months. The ban prohibits yard debris and land-clearing fires while allowing specific recreational fires under strict conditions. Urban stated that summer brings higher fire risks, and community compliance is crucial for safety. Allowed recreational fires must use seasoned firewood, be contained in designated fire pits, and not exceed three feet in diameter. The fire must be at least 10 feet away from vegetation and 25 feet from structures, and must always be attended.

Residents should extinguish fires completely after use and avoid burning when wind speeds exceed 15 miles per hour. The ban addresses concerns over increasing dry fuel loads due to expected higher temperatures, which elevate the risk of uncontrolled fires. For more information, residents can visit the Department of Local Services’ Fire Safety Burn Bans page.