Vancouver and Battle Ground also lift burn bans in those cities
VANCOUVER – Clark County Interim Fire Marshal Dan Young announced he is lifting the ban on recreational and land clearing burning in unincorporated Clark County, effective midnight Wed., Sept. 30.
Residents must follow all local outdoor burning regulations and burning permit requirements. Recreational campfires are allowed if built in improved fire pits in designated campgrounds, such as those found in local, county and state parks. On private land, recreational fires must be built according to the following regulations:
- Fires must be built in a metal, stone or masonry-lined pit such as those seen in approved campgrounds or in portable units sold in home and garden stores. Fires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height.
- Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person at least 16 years old and with the ability to extinguish the fire using a shovel, five gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.
- Completely extinguish recreational fires by pouring water or moist soil on them and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
Young reminds residents that the use of burn barrels is illegal.
For more information, go to www.clark.wa.gov/code-administration/outdoor-burning.
Vancouver fire marshal lifts city’s recreational burning ban
Due to changing weather conditions, Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli has lifted the recreational burning ban within the city of Vancouver, effective at 12:01 a.m. Thu., Oct. 1.
Recreational fires, campfires and fires in outdoor fireplaces or chimney-type devices are now allowed. This order applies to areas within the city limits only.
All outdoor burning of things like brush/vegetation and garbage is still prohibited within the city limits.
The burn ban originally took effect on Sept. 8, due to very dry and windy weather conditions.
Battle Ground fire marshal lifts recreational burn ban
Fire Marshal Chris Drone has announced that the recreational burn ban in the city of Battle Ground, originally declared on Sept. 8, is lifted effective Oct. 1. Recreational burning refers to campfires and fires in outdoor fireplaces or chimney-type devices.
The recent rainfall and a forecast calling for cooler temperatures has lowered fire danger levels. Regardless of weather conditions, there is always the potential for fires to get out of control. One should exercise caution with any outdoor burning by observing regulations and requirements, remaining attentive, and following safety tips.
- Recreational fires shall not be wider than 3 feet or taller than 2 feet and at least 25 feet away from structures or combustible materials.
- Only firewood or charcoal may be used in a recreational fire
- Never burn yard debris or trash.
- Ensure that there is a mesh screen in place to keep ash and embers from escaping.
- Keep a bucket of water or a charged garden hose nearby and ready.
- The use of burn barrels is strictly prohibited.
- Portable outdoor fireplaces are required to be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Residential burning and land clearing burning of vegetation, yard debris, or branches is always prohibited within Battle Ground city limits. Refer to the SWCAA Interactive Burn Map.
Those residing outside city limits in unincorporated areas of Battle Ground will find outdoor burning information and regulations on the Clark County Outdoor Burning website page.
As the transition to colder weather begins, it is a good time to check furnaces, stoves and chimneys to ensure that they are clear and clean for safe use. Follow Heating Fire Safety tips to maintain a fire-safe home this fall and winter.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications, city of Vancouver and city of Battle Ground.
