Thanks to recent rain reducing fire risk, the City of Bellingham will lift its ban on recreational fires within city limits at 5 pm. on Friday, Sept. 11.
The change reflects safer local conditions. “We appreciate everyone’s patience and compliance during the fire ban,” said Bellingham Fire Department Division Chief Shawn Linville. “Please continue exercising caution and follow the guidelines to ensure community safety.”
Recreational fire rules
To make sure recreational fires stay safe and legal, please follow these guidelines:
- Burn only seasoned firewood or charcoal. Do not burn garbage, yard debris, or construction materials.
- Keep the fire small — no more than 3 feet wide and 2 feet tall.
- Stay with your fire at all times and fully put it out before leaving.
- Keep fires at least 25 feet away from houses or anything that can catch fire. Portable outdoor fireplaces must be at least 15 feet away.
- Get permission from the property owner or their representative before starting a fire.
- Have a way to put the fire out nearby, such as a charged garden hose, a 4-A fire extinguisher, or two 5-gallon buckets of water.
If you have questions about outdoor fires within Bellingham city limits, please contact the Bellingham Fire Department Life Safety Division at (360) 778-8420. For unincorporated areas of Whatcom County, contact the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s outdoor burn information line at (360) 778-5903. You can also learn more on our outdoor burning page.
