Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Interim Fire Marshal Curtis Eavenson announced today he is lifting the ban on recreational fires in unincorporated Clark County effective at 12:01 am Saturday, Sept. 23 due to cooler temperatures and forecast.

Under the modified ban, burning yard debris and material from land clearing will continue to be prohibited until at least Oct. 1, if not longer, depending on fire conditions.

“Please keep in mind that just because we’ve had cooler temperatures, fires are still possible,” said Eavenson. “Don’t let down your guard.”

Beginning Saturday morning for the unincorporated county areas, recreational fires will be allowed in approved fire pits.  

On private land, recreational fires must comply with the following regulations:

Fires must be built in metal, rock or masonry-lined pits, such as those in established campgrounds or sold in home and garden stores.

• Fires cannot exceed three feet in diameter and two feet in height.
• Fires must be at least 25 feet from structures or combustible materials and have at least 20 feet of overhead clearance from tree limbs, patio covers and carports.
• Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person, at least 16 years old, who can extinguish the fire using a shovel and at least five gallons of water in one or more containers or a connected hose with the water turned on.
• Fires must be extinguished by pouring water or shoveling moist soil onto flames and coals and stirring until all areas are cool to the touch.

The use of burn barrels is illegal in unincorporated Clark County.

These regulations pertain only to areas outside city limits. Residents in cities should check with their municipality for regulations on recreational fires and other outside burning.

Contact:

Curtis Eavenson, Interim Fire Marshal, Community Development
564.397.3324
curtis.eavenson@clark.wa.gov