Statewide DNR burn ban enacted ahead of Fourth of July weekend

State Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz has signed an order issuing a statewide burn ban on all forest lands under the Washington State Department of Natural Resources fire protection.

Concern mounts over fireworks, dry conditions ahead of 4th of July weekend

Effective July 2, the order bans outdoor burning, campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes and prescribed burns on all forest lands within DNR’s fire protection through Sept. 30, 2021.

The order supersedes any other burn ban currently in effect on forest lands under DNR protection.

I am issuing a statewide burn ban on all forest lands under DNR fire protection ahead of the Fourth of July weekend. This includes campfires, outdoor burning and the use of charcoal briquettes – effective July 2 through Sept. 30. Our state is bone dry, and we must protect it.

— Hilary Franz (@Hilary_FranzCPL) July 1, 2021

Washington state is experiencing a drought that has increased fire danger, and a record-breaking heat wave last weekend. In addition to forecasted winds that can spread fire quickly through dry grass and forests, fireworks on the Fourth of July are expected to increase that danger as well.

“The record breaking temperatures we saw last weekend have left our state bone dry, and the risks from fireworks and other holiday activities make the situation even more precarious,” Franz said. “I am asking everyone in Washington to do their part to protect our firefighters and our communities this summer. Please do not start a fire outside, and please do not set off your own fireworks this weekend.”