OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has implemented new temporary burn restrictions on DNR-protected lands.
The areas affected are the Northwest, the Pacific Cascade and the Northeast regions.
DNR is asking the public to avoid conducting debris burns as much as possible for the next week.
The restrictions come as temperatures are expected to heat up over the week, which could draw more people to the outdoors.
Officials said fire danger is rising in the state due to dry and warming weather conditions and gusty winds that can quickly spread wildfires.
“Fire season is upon us, and we’re asking the public to not take any chances,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “Strong winds and dry weather leave us vulnerable to fast-spreading wildfires, and we cannot protect our firefighters, forests and communities without the public’s help. We need everyone to avoid starting an outdoor burn and, if they do, to fully extinguish their outdoor and have a hose ready if the fire escapes outside the burn area.”
The DNR stated there has been a spike in wildfires over the past week, and firefighters have responded to nearly 40 incidents in the last three days. Several of the incidents were caused by outdoor debris burning.
Burn restrictions are taking effect in the following regions:
Northeast Region
- Small debris burns (“Rule Burns”) are NOT allowed.
- Permit burns are still allowed.
Northwest Region
- Small debris burns (“Rule Burns”) are still allowed.
- Permit burns (larger fires requiring a DNR permit) are NOT allowed.
Pacific Cascade Region
- Neither small debris burns nor permit burns are allowed.
The restrictions in the Northwest Region are in effect now. The restrictions for the Northeast and Pacific Cascade regions go in effect Friday.
To see a map of the DNR regions, go here.
The restrictions are expected to be lifted after “spring rains allow fresh grasses to grow that haven’t dried out.”
Officials said a misdemeanor citation will be issued for those who do not comply with the restrictions.