Thanks to the return of the rain, Whidbey Island residents and visitors to parks on the island can again have campfires in approved fire pits.

The Island County Sheriff’s Office and various state agencies modified bans issued in early August that restricted all outdoor fires on the island.

Under the modified bans, outdoor burning of natural debris is still not allowed, even with a permit. But recreational and cooking fires are OK in approved fire pits lined with concrete or metal, such as those located at established campgrounds. Outdoor cooking will also be allowed on a propane barbecue, a barbecue with briquettes or a self-contained camp stove.

A notice from the sheriff’s office cites “recent changes in weather in western areas of the state, with forecasted precipitation, lower temperatures, and higher humidity levels,” as the reason for the change.

The sheriff’s ban will remain in effect until further notice. Report violations by calling 911.