With cooler, wetter weather, the Okanogan County Commissioners have lifted the county-wide burn ban as of Friday.
People are now permitted to burn natural vegetation in unincorporated areas of the county. Twisp follows the county’s rules. In Winthrop, burning of natural vegetation is not permitted without a permit until Oct. 15.
Campfires and barbecues are also permitted on private property and on state and federal lands. Fireworks are illegal year-round in unincorporated parts of the county.
Fire danger in the Methow Fire Danger Rating Area is still “moderate,” and it remains “high” in the Valley area in eastern Okanogan County, according to the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Although DNR lifted their statewide ban on outdoor burning, in some areas – including the Methow Valley and Okanogan County – burning piles of vegetation on private land is still not allowed. People can have campfires and barbecues.
Although the ban has been lifted, the county commissioners remind people to be careful, since dry fuels and fire risk remain. “Burn responsibly, do not be the one trying to explain how your controlled burn turned into an un-controlled burn, and PLEASE be a good neighbor – don’t let it smolder!” they said.
People planning to burn are advised to call Okanogan County Sheriff’s Dispatch at (509) 422-7232 (select option 4) to let them know they’re burning.
People should be sure to completely extinguish their campfire, by dousing it with water and making sure it’s cool to the touch.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to correct information about DNR’s burn restriction.
