DNR enacts Eastern Washington burn ban amid rising wildfire threat

OLYMPIA — State officials are implementing a burn ban on all forestlands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in Eastern Washington starting today (Friday), as dry summer weather and drought conditions fuel wildfire risks.

The ban prohibits outdoor burning, campfires, and the use of charcoal briquettes on DNR-protected lands in both the Northeast and Southeast regions. Pressurized liquid gas and propane stoves with functioning shut-off valves are still permitted.

Officials said the restrictions are a critical step to prevent human-caused ignitions as multiple wildfires already burn across the state. The ban will remain in place until weather conditions improve.

“It has already been a hot summer with wildfire activity across the state, and with more warm, dry conditions still ahead of us, we need to do everything we can to keep our state and firefighters safe,” Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove said in a statement.

The fire threat has been severely compounded by a historically low winter snowpack and an ongoing statewide drought, which have left forest fuels exceptionally dry and primed for rapid ignition.

While the DNR has not issued a blanket burn ban for Western Washington, officials noted that many local jurisdictions have already enacted their own restrictions. Residents are urged to check local rules before any outdoor burning. Recreationists are also urged to take precautions, such as ensuring tow chains do not drag on pavement and staying on established trails. Anyone who spots smoke is advised to call 911 immediately.

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Elkhorn Media Group