By The Reflector
Clark County Fire Marshal Dan Young has lifted the ban on recreational fires, but the county’s ban on land clearing burns remains in place until further notice.
Recreational campfires on forest lands are only allowed in improved fire pits in designated campgrounds, like commercial campgrounds and local, county and state parks, stated a news release.
“The recent rain and cooler weather allows the county to safely lift the restriction on recreational fires,” Young said.
Recreational fires are permitted on private land when built by the following regulations:
- Recreational fires must be in a metal, stone or masonry-lined fire pit like those in improved campgrounds or available at home and garden stores.
- The size of the fire may not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height.
- Fires must be located at least 25 feet away from a structure or other combustible material and have at least 20 feet of clearance from overhead fuels like tree limbs, patio covers or carports.
- Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person at least 16 years old who has the ability and tools to extinguish the fire. Tools include a shovel and either five gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.
- Portable outdoor fireplaces, also known as patio fireplaces, designed to burn solid wood should not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material and must always be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Completely extinguish recreational fires by covering them with water or moist soil and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
- Self-contained camp stoves are a safe and easy alternative to campfires.
The ban was lifted at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 21. For more information, go online to www.clark.wa.gov/development/fire/burning.html or call the Fire Marshal’s Office at 564-397-2186.
