County Issues Burning Ban for Unincorporated Areas

A Burning Ban Order that will take effect on Thursday, July 15ith has been issued by Spokane County Building Director Randy Vissia, who also holds County Fire Code Official responsibilities. The burning ban will remain in effect until future notice for any currently unauthorized “open burning” and recreational fires within the unincorporated areas of Spokane County.

The ban is not intended to preclude burning otherwise sanctioned by Ordinance, such as field burning, provided appropriate approvals are obtained. It also does not preclude the use of backyard barbecues, chimneys and other patio/deck warmers as long as only approved fuel such as seasoned firewood, briquettes, or propane is used.

Failure to comply with the burning ban could have serious consequences. As stated in Spokane County Code 3.02.090: “Any person(s) conducting open burning who fails to take immediate action to extinguish or otherwise discontinue such burning when ordered to do so shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punishable upon conviction by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 90 days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.”

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