EFFECTIVE MAY 8, 2026 THE COUNTYWIDE FIRE DANGER RATING IS MODERATE

LAND CLEARING OR YARD DEBRIS BURNING IS PROHIBITED

After reviewing fire behavior indicators and environmental conditions, the County Fire Chiefs and the Jefferson County Fire Marshal have jointly determined that elevating the fire danger level is necessary. This decision is based on information and forecasts provided by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Olympic Region Clean Air Agency (ORCAA), National Weather Service (NWS), and other state, federal, and local partner agencies.

MODERATE Fire Danger Restrictions and Guidance:

• The following activities are prohibited: burn barrels, land clearing or yard debris burning, and sky lanterns.
• Recreational fires are allowed in permanent or portable barbecues, outdoor fireplaces, or grills. Portable fire pits, fireplaces, and chimineas are allowed when placed on non combustible surfaces, or when surrounding combustible material is cleared down to mineral soil for at least 1.5 feet around the device.
• Only natural wood may be used, and fuel must not extend outside the device.
• All fires must be constantly attended until fully extinguished.

In summary, recreational burning, or “campfires,” are allowed during a MODERATE fire danger level, and all barbecue appliances may continue to be used. Large brush, yard debris, and land clearing fires remain restricted until a LOW fire danger level is re-established.

Duration of Restrictions:

The MODERATE (Blue) fire danger level will remain in effect until atmospheric and field conditions improve for a sustained period and the risks to residents, property, and emergency responders decrease to acceptable levels. Based on current forecasts, a minimum MODERATE level is expected to remain in place until at least September 30, 2026. Conditions will be monitored continuously, and fire danger levels are likely to be further elevated as the season progresses.

For more information, please visit the Jefferson County Department of Community Development / Office of the Fire Marshal website at: www.co.jefferson.wa.us/1687/Office-of-the-Fire-Marshal.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

District Resolution 2025-003  - costs to the Distict of the fire suppression services required to suppress a fire as a result of a person starting a fire without a permit, or a permit holder failing to comply with a fire permit, shall be recovered from a person starting a fire without a permit or a permit holder failing to comply with a permit. Responsible and/or liable parties will be billed for recoverable costs.