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Pierce County Burn Ban: Campfires Safe, Debris Fires Out
7 Jun
Summary
- Pierce County enacted an indefinite burn ban starting June 1.
- Land clearing and yard debris fires are prohibited.
- Campfires and recreational fires are permitted with restrictions.
As of June 1, Pierce County is enforcing an indefinite burn ban to combat rising temperatures and drought conditions. This ban prohibits land clearing and yard debris fires in unincorporated areas. Recreational fires, such as campfires, remain permitted but must adhere to specific size and safety regulations.
The duration of this Stage 1 burn ban is contingent on weather patterns, including humidity, wind speed, and temperatures. Fire officials anticipate the ban may escalate to Stage 2 in July, which would prohibit all recreational fires. Last year's ban extended into October.
Violators of the burn ban face citations and can be held responsible for the significant costs of fire agency responses, potentially reaching tens of thousands of dollars. Specific rules for recreational fires vary by city within Pierce County, though all mandate adult supervision and require flames to be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
