Due to the increase in fuel moisture levels and a return to more typical seasonal weather patterns, the county fire marshal lifted the ban on outdoor burning in Island County as of Sept. 20, according to a press release.

Residential yard debris and land-clearing burning are permanently banned in Coupeville, Freeland, Langley and Oak Harbor. Yard debris and land-clearing burning will require a permit where open burning is allowed. Burn permits are issued through the Island County Health Department.

Recreational fires less than three feet in diameter and two feet high do not require a permit. Burning garbage and the use of burn barrels is illegal statewide and subject to fines as high as $1,000.

To obtain a verbal permit for residential fires less than four feet in diameter, call either 360-240-5526 and listen to the required conditions or call Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617, EXT 4. To obtain a written permit for fires over four feet in diameter, call 360-679-7350 (North and Central Whidbey), 360-321-5111 EXT 7350 (South Whidbey) and 360-387-3443 (Camano Island).

If your property falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources, call 360-856-3500 for burn permit information. For air quality issues call the Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617.

For more information, visit islandcountywa.gov/626/outdoor-burning.