Fire Marshal lifts Spokane burn restrictions

October 12, 2018 7:37 PM

Aaron Polevoi,

Posted: October 12, 2018 7:37 PM

Updated: May 20, 2021 8:10 AM

by Aaron Polevoi

campfires banned in WA state parks — Fire restrictions lifted in Spokane

SPOKANE, Wash. — Good news for those wanting to spend their Fall evenings around a campfire!

The Spokane City Fire Marshal lifted burn restrictions for outdoor recreational fires Friday morning. The restrictions had been in place since July. Burn restrictions were also lifted in Spokane County Friday.

Starting Friday, all ground campfires, fire bowls, and fire pits are authorized for recreational use in the City of Spokane. Approved fuels include seasoned firewood (clean and dry), briquettes, propane, or natural gas. Debris disposal is NOT authorized at any time.

Here are some additional requirements from the City if you choose to have a fire:

Recreational fires may be in designated areas or on private property with owner approval.
Keep it small – Fires must not exceed a fuel area of 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
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 (25 feet for campfires and fire pits).

For multi-family dwellings, use at least a 15-foot clearance from combustibles and structures for portable fireplace appliances. Be safe and use good judgment.
For one and two-family dwellings, follow the appliance manufacturer’s instructions for clearance. 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.
Ash and charcoal remnants must be safely disposed of in noncombustible waste containers.

Fires not meeting these listed requirements and/or considered unsafe must be extinguished. Bonfires or pig roast-type fires must receive an inspection, pre-approval, and a permit from the Spokane Fire Department.

Citizens who fail to comply with these fire regulations are subject to a $536 penalty. 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, which carries penalties of up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 90 days in jail.