KHQ Right Now - News and Weather for Spokane and North Idaho | Fire Marshal Issues Burn Restrictions For The City of Spokane

Fire Marshal Issues Burn Restrictions For The City of Spokane

SPOKANE, Wash. - Because of the hot and dry conditions, outdoor recreational fires, including campfires, have been restricted in the City of Spokane effective today, July 15, by order of the Spokane City Fire Marshal.  The restriction will continue until further notice; such restrictions are subject to change depending on conditions.

Citizens still may use backyard barbecues, chimineas, portable outdoor fireplaces or other patio/deck warmers, as long as approved fuel is used.  Approved fuel includes seasoned (clean and dry) firewood, briquettes, propane, or natural gas.

Here are other requirements for outdoor fires:

• Fires must be in designated areas or on private property with approval from the owner.
• Fires must be attended by a responsible adult (knowledgeable in the use of the fire extinguishing equipment) at all times.
• Approved fire extinguishing equipment must be on hand and ready for use.
  • Equipment can include a garden hose, dirt, sand, bucket, shovel, or a minimum 4A rated portable fire extinguisher.
• Adequate clearance from combustibles must exist.
  • For one and two-family dwellings, follow the device manufacturer's instructions for clearance.  Be safe and use good judgment.
  • For multi-family dwellings, use at least a 15-foot clearance from combustibles and structures.  Be safe and use good judgment.
• Fires must not present a health hazard or nuisance to others.
• Safe wind conditions (no more than 7 mph) must be present.
• A Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency "green light" indication for air quality must be present. 

• Ash and charcoal remnants must be safely disposed of in noncombustible waste containers.

 Unsafe or otherwise restricted fires will be required to be extinguished. 

As always, bonfires or pig roast type fires must receive an inspection, pre-approval, and a permit from the Spokane Fire Department.  Outdoor burning for disposal purposes is illegal in the City of Spokane at all times.

Failure to comply with the burning restrictions could have serious consequences.  A person who fails to take immediate action to extinguish or otherwise discontinue unauthorized burning when ordered to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor.  That person can face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail.