Okanogan County has lifted all burning restrictions as of Sunday, Oct. 15. The change, made possible by cooler, wetter weather, means that people can burn natural vegetation, yard waste and fields.
Campfires — in a concrete, steel or rock ring and at least 25 feet from a structure — were permitted again last month.
People should burn responsibly. “Do not be the one trying to explain how your controlled burn turned into an uncontrolled burn, and be a good neighbor and don’t let it smolder,” Okanogan County Emergency Management said in its announcement of the lifting of restrictions.
The Washington Department of Natural Resources has lifted its burning restrictions across the state. Fire danger is rated as “low” statewide.
Although people can burn vegetation now, they must attend fires at all times and check burn bans imposed by the state Department of Ecology to protect air quality.
Campfires are permitted in national and state forests and at state parks. Anyone who builds a campfire must make sure that it is completely out by putting a hand in it. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
The county encourages people to call Okanogan County Sheriff Dispatch at (509) 422-7232 and select option 4 before burning.
