SPOKANE – The Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency has announced that the outdoor recreational fire restrictions imposed by local fire and county officials on July 20 has been lifted, effective Oct. 20.
Restrictions were previously lifted by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources for their permit and rule burns for silvicultural burning on state-protected lands. Area residents are asked to follow all rules regarding specific burning practices.
According to the Regional Clean Air Agency, recreational fires include camp and cooking fires, backyard barbecues, chimneas and other patio warmers that burn charcoal, natural firewood or manufactured logs and pellets. These types of fires are limited to private property and designated areas on public lands when restrictions are not in place.
Recreational fires may be no larger than three feet in diameter and two feet in height and may not be used for disposal. Fires fueled by wood or charcoal must be a minimum of 25 feet away from any structure. Other local rules, such as homeowner association covenants and rental agreements, may apply to recreational fires.
Social event fires associated with a public event or celebration are typically limited to 10 feet in diameter and five feet in height. A written permit is required for these fires.
When using recreational fires, it’s important to remember to “keep it small, not tall,” use only approved fuels including dry, clean and natural (untreated) firewood or manufactured logs and stay clear of structures.
Always attend the fire, even when completely extinguishing it.
Clean Air Agency officials remind people that with more people home right now during the COVID-19 pandemic, please consider voluntarily limiting wood burning (indoors/outdoors). Breathing smoke affects the respiratory system and is especially harmful to sensitive populations including youth, seniors, and those with underlying heart and respiratory conditions.
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