Stage 1 burn ban announced for Whatcom County

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Today, May 22, 2026, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office announced a Stage 1 burn ban for unincorporated Whatcom County due to weather conditions and increased fire danger. The restrictions take effect at about 8am on June 15, 2026, and are scheduled through September 15, 2026, depending on weather conditions.

All land clearing and yard debris burning must stop when the ban begins, and all issued burn permits are suspended.

Recreational fires are allowed with landowner permission if they meet specific requirements:

• must only contain seasoned firewood or charcoal
• must be contained in an enclosure no larger than 3’x3′ across and at least 16″ high, constructed of cement blocks, stones, or steel
• beach fires, where allowed, must be in an 8″ deep pit surrounded by a 4″ high enclosure of rocks
• fires must be 25′ from structures, timber, and combustible materials
• a charged garden hose or 2 5-gallon buckets of water must be next to the fire
• a shovel or rake capable of stirring and extinguishing the fire must be on-site
• fires after dark must be attended at all times by a person 16 years or older
• fires must be attended until out cold
• no burning is allowed when winds exceed 7mph

Violations of the restrictions carry a minimum 250.00 dollar fine. Landowners may also face criminal charges and financial responsibility for fire suppression costs if a fire escapes or requires department response.

Properties within Whatcom County Fire Districts 5 (Point Roberts), 11 (Lummi Island), or 17 (Sandy Point) must follow regulations and permit requirements set by those specific districts. Properties within or visiting areas protected by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, federal parks, or forest agencies must contact those specific organizations for restrictions.

Questions can be directed to the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office at 360-778-5900 or through their website. Individuals must call the Outdoor Burning Information Line at 360-778-5903 every time they burn in Whatcom County.