State parks, DNR lift burn bans for long holiday weekend

Because of recent rains and cooler temperatures, the State Parks and Recreation Commission and the state Department of Natural Resources have decided to allow campfires on state land west of the crest of the Cascade Mountains and on ocean beaches starting Saturday (Sept. 5).

Now allowed in Western Washington state parks are wood and charcoal campfires in established fire rings and propane campfire pits. But park managers have the discretion to restrict campfires in their campgrounds based on their assessment of conditions, which may change quickly. Campfires are allowed only in approved fire pits. Park managers also may require smaller fires than are normally acceptable.

The burn ban continues for state parks in Eastern Washington as dry conditions and wildfires are still an issue. Some Eastern Washington state parks now allow gas- or propane-powered campfire pits — in addition to cook stoves — on a case-by-case basis. The public can find particular campfire restrictions at parks.wa.gov/281/Parks.

The statewide burn ban instituted June 22 remains in effect on all other lands. All other outdoor burning is banned. For a fuller description of activities prohibited by the burn ban, go to dnr.wa.gov/programs-and-services/wildfire/outdoor-burning/burn-bans.

“As weather conditions have slightly eased fire danger in western Washington, we are adjusting the statewide burn ban to allow campfires in campgrounds over the holiday weekend,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark. “It’s important to remember, however, that fire danger in general remains high, and people should be extremely careful” to completely douse any fire they start.

This story was originally published September 4, 2015 at 8:39 AM with the headline "State parks, DNR lift burn bans for long holiday weekend."