The Kitsap County Fire Marshal, in conjunction with the Kitsap County Fire Chiefs’ Association, announced that a phase one outdoor burning ban is in effect throughout all of Kitsap County.
Local fire danger is projected to increase dramatically over the next week and officials are imposing the ban in an effort to limit the most common cause of wildfires – outdoor burning – and urge the public to exercise extreme caution with all ignition sources, per a news release.
Under a phase one ban, outdoor burning permits are temporarily suspended, and no outdoor burning is allowed except for recreational or cooking fires in developed fire pits or portable outdoor fireplaces. A “recreational” fire is defined as follows:
- Solely for recreational or cooking purposes.
- Built in a designated fire pit space.
- No larger than 3 feet in diameter.
- Containing seasoned firewood or charcoal briquettes only.
- Located in a space well clear of vegetation and at least 25 feet from buildings, fences, or anything that might burn.
- Attended at all times by an alert adult with immediate access to a shovel and a water source.
“Officials hope that the burn ban will limit potential incidents in Kitsap County. The ban will remain in place until significant and sustained rainfall improves conditions,” the release states.
Violation of a ban on outdoor burning may subject property owners and responsible parties to citations and civil penalties, including the cost of fire suppression.