Burn bans lifted in Battle Ground and unincorporated Clark County

The City of Battle Ground and the Clark County fire marshal have lifted burn bans implemented earlier this year after the area received cooler temperatures and precipitation. 

The ban on outdoor debris burning and recreational fires in unincorporated Clark County was lifted on Oct. 25, which was the same day the recreational burn ban in Battle Ground was suspended.

Battle Ground’s ban was originally declared on Sept. 9 and restricted the use of recreational burning like campfires, fires in outdoor fireplaces or chimney-type devices and charcoal outdoor cooking. 

“With the recent rainfall and cooler temperatures in the forecast ahead, the risk of wildfire danger has dropped significantly within the city and the surrounding areas,” stated a release from the city. “Nevertheless, there is always potential for fires to grow out of control.”

Residents are urged to exercise caution when burning outdoors and to obey all fire regulations.  

Here’s some safety tips: 

• Recreational fires should not be more than 3 feet wide or exceed 2 feet tall and remain a minimum distance of 25 feet away from structures or combustible materials. 
• Only firewood or charcoal may be used in a recreational fire. 
• Burning of trash is prohibited.
• Ensure that a mesh screen is in place to prevent ash and/or 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 prohibited within the city limits of Battle Ground. 

“As we transition to colder weather, now is the time to check furnaces, stoves, and chimneys to ensure that they are clear and clean for safe use,” stated the release from Battle Ground.

Information on how to fire-safe a home in the fall and winter is available online at cityofbg.org/heating-fire-safety.

Clark County Fire Marshal Dan Young encourages residents to be vigilant when burning. Permitted fires should be attended to until they are completely extinguished and cold to the touch.

Permits are required for burning yard debris and land clearing in unincorporated Clark County. More information can be found online at clark.wa.gov/community-development/outdoor-burning.