Burn, baby, burn might apply to the weather forecast…or your skin if you stay out in the sun without protection. But it’s exactly the opposite for any fires you might be thinking about lighting. A total burn ban remains in effect throughout Whatcom County since July 2nd until further notice, per orders from the Governor of Washington, the Whatcom County Fire Marshall, the Whatcom County Executive, and Fire District 11 (Lummi Island).
Pay attention, or risk a minimum fine of $250 (for a Fire Dept. response)–or more! The official core statement states:
“All outdoor burning is prohibited during this ban, including yard debris fires, land clearing fires, and recreational fires.”
“Total Burn Ban” has nuances, depending on where and what you intend to light up. For example, Whatcom County Parks & Rec disallows any usage of grills at their public parks. Whereas, the County and Fire Marshall alert states that you can grill with certain restrictions (the 5-feet away rule): “Propane fire pits without solid wood-burning material will still be allowed, along with propane and charcoal BBQs.
However….”Wood burning fire pits or charcoal pits or similar enclosures with grates or screens are NOT considered barbecues and not allowed.” On Lummi Island that basically means you’re limited to grilling within specifications at home. (The island has no public parks.)
Read throughly the many guidelines and legal requirements during a Total Burn Ban, straight from the Whatcom County Fire Marshall and Lummi Island Burn Ban Rules