Full Notification

BURN BANS

Prompted by increased fire danger due to prolonged drought, Fourth of July fireworks, increased temperatures and winds, Pend Oreille County, the DNR and the US Forest Service have all banned all outdoor burning, including campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes and recreational fires through Sept. 30, 2021. This date may be extended or shortened depending on fire conditions.

The Fire Danger in Southern Pend Oreille County is “Very High” and in Northern Pend Oreille County “High.”

The following Burning Controls are in effect in Pend Oreille County:
1.) All burning is banned
2.) Campfires and other recreational fires are prohibited
3.) Gas and propane cook stoves are allowed

FIREWORKS
Celebrate Safely!  Attend a Public Fireworks Display – Leave the fireworks lighting to the professionals!

“The record-breaking temperatures we saw last weekend have left our state bone dry,” said DNR Commissioner Franz, “and the risks from fireworks and other holiday activities make the situation even more precarious. I am asking everyone in Washington to do their part to protect our firefighters and our communities this summer. Please do not start a fire outside, and please do not set off your own fireworks this weekend.”

“The Board of County Commissioners of Pend Oreille County are discouraging the use of personal fireworks this year.
 
With the unprecedented hot and dry conditions we are experiencing in our region, we ask all residents of Pend Oreille County to avoid the use of fireworks this year. There is a high level of fire danger in our area, as has been evidenced by several fires recently in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Even those fireworks deemed "Safe & Sane" can start fires and we urge you to refrain from using those, as well.
 
If you cause a fire, you could be held financially liable for the damages and the cost of firefighting efforts.
 
Please respect the work of our firefighters and emergency response personnel, the health of our citizens, and the beauty of our county. Let's do what we can to keep our friends and neighbors safe this holiday weekend.”

Washington law (RCW 70.77) permits the use of certain personal      fireworks and the Pend Oreille County Commissioners do not        currently have the authority to ban fireworks, unless an ordinance is adopted at least one year prior:
  RCW 70.77.250. (4) … Counties and cities shall comply with these state rules. Any ordinances adopted by a county or city that are more restrictive than state law shall have an effective date no sooner than one year after their adoption.