A burn ban goes into effect in unincorporated Island County July 7.

Sheriff Mark Brown, who is also the county’s fire marshal, announced in a press release Monday that a Type 1 burn ban starts at noon on Friday, July 7. The ban prohibits all outdoor fires of natural debris. Those with an approved permit are not exempt.

Cooking fires are only allowed in approved fire pits lined with concrete or metal, such as in established campgrounds. Outdoor cooking is also allowed on a propane barbecue, a barbecue with briquettes and a self-contained camp stove.

The ban is necessary due to “atmospheric conditions of reduced moisture levels, low humidity and warmer weather,” combined with a reduced availability of fire-fighting resources. Both factors may cause a risk of fire in Island County, Brown wrote in the news release. The ban will remain in effect until further notice. For those within the city limits of incorporated cities or towns should check with the local fire department for current burning restrictions.

For more information, contact the Island County Health Department at 360-679-7350 or the Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617. Report violations to 9-1-1.