The following is a press release from the Washington State Fire Marshal:

With dry conditions in the forecast, King County Fire Marshal Chris Ricketts issued a Phase 1 burn ban for the unincorporated areas of King County on Monday, July 27. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

This is a Phase 1 burn ban and applies to all outdoor burning. The National Weather Service in Seattle also issued a Red Flag Warning for parts of Western Washington, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., today (July 27) due to potential high wildfire conditions. During such periods recreational fires in affected areas shall be ceased.

Even when the Red Flag Warning is lifted, King County’s Phase 1 burn ban restrictions will still be in place and apply to all outdoor burning, except for small recreational fires in established fire pits at approved campgrounds or private property with the owner’s permission. Recreational fires still pose a risk, so their use shall be limited and respected accordingly. Ricketts says recreational fires must:

• Be built in a metal or concrete fire pit, such as those typically found in designated campgrounds; and not be used as debris disposal

• Grow no larger than three (3) feet in diameter

• Be located in a clear spot, free from any vegetation for at least ten (10) feet in a horizontal direction, including at least 25 feet away from any structure and allow 20-foot vertical clearance from overhanging branches

• Be attended at all times by an alert individual with equipment capable of extinguishing the fire

Ricketts added that because we are still experiencing a pandemic, residents should follow social distancing guidelines, wear face coverings, and stay six feet apart. They can also consult Public Health – Seattle & King County’s hot weather tips during a pandemic.

For properties located within cities, please contact your local jurisdiction for requirements. This ban remains in effect until further notice.

The King County Fire Marshal reminds residents that it is every individual’s responsibility to help prevent fires that destroy lives, property, and our wildland. For more information, visit the Department of Local Services Fire Marshal’s website.