Share on LinkedIn

VANCOUVER Wash. (KPTV) - The Vancouver Fire Marshal has issued a total ban on recreational burning, that will start at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday for the city of Vancouver.

The city of Vancouver said the ban is based on weather conditions, fuel moisture content in vegetation, and community fire safety needs.

The ban will remain in effect throughout the summer and fall months or until weather and fire danger conditions greatly improve.

Citations may be issued for those who violate the ban.

Recreational fires, bonfires, campfires, fires in outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and chimney-type devices are banned under the order.

Cooking outdoors in a propane or charcoal barbecue is allowed.

SEE ALSO:

A small brush fire started during a concert at The Gorge Amphitheatre on Saturday night.

Heating and cooking fires in unmanaged situations such as homeless encampments are illegal under city ordinance and the city said they will be extinguished.

“The risk for fire is high and state officials have said that this year’s wildfire season has the potential to be challenging as the fine fuels continue to cure,” said Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli. “It is vital that everyone be extra vigilant about fire safety during this time. In addition to not using any recreational fires, we also ask that smokers never put out their cigarettes in bark mulch or planters or toss lit cigarettes out car windows.”

Under the ban, all fires will be illegal in the city limits.

People are encouraged to call 911 and report any fire-related activity so it can be extinguished.

Violations of the ban may be subject to a fire code citation and a $500 fine, with possible criminal penalties.