A Stage 1 Burn Ban will take effect Monday, June 22, across unincorporated King County, including White Center, as officials warn that hotter and drier than normal summer conditions are increasing the risk of fires.

The National Weather Service is predicting above average temperatures this summer, creating drier conditions that elevate fire danger. In response, King County Fire Marshal Eric Urban issued the burn ban, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. June 22.

The ban prohibits yard debris fires and fires used to clear land in unincorporated areas of the county. It does not apply to recreational fires or gas and propane appliances, including grills, pellet smokers and charcoal grills.

“With the World Cup coming to King County, along with America’s 250th birthday on July 4th, we know this is going to be a busy and active summer,” Urban said. “We appreciate that people will want to celebrate with their friends and neighbors. We just want them to remember during this time of extremely dry conditions, the risk of fire is high.”

Urban urged residents to follow the burn ban, avoid using fireworks and comply with any future Stage 2 Burn Ban if one is declared.

The burn ban was issued in conjunction with the King County Fire Chiefs Association and the King County Fire Marshals Association.

King County officials also reminded residents that the use and sale of consumer fireworks are prohibited in all unincorporated areas of the county, including White Center, Skyway, East Federal Way, Fairwood and the East Renton area.

Fireworks complaints will be investigated by the Code Enforcement team within the county’s Department of Local Services. Residents can report suspected violations online or by calling 206-848-0800.

To pursue enforcement action, complaints must include a specific property address and the reporting person must be willing to testify in person or provide a written declaration describing the date, time and location of the alleged violation. Anonymous complaints or complaints from people unwilling to testify will result in informational letters being sent to property owners where illegal fireworks are reported.

King County also issued several safety requirements for recreational fires that remain permitted under the Stage 1 Burn Ban. Campfires must use seasoned, dry firewood and be contained in metal or concrete fire pits. Fires must be no larger than three feet wide, at least 10 feet from vegetation and at least 25 feet from structures. They must be continuously attended by an alert person with fire extinguishing tools nearby and must be completely extinguished after use.

Officials also advised smokers to use extreme caution when extinguishing cigarettes and disposing of ashes.

Get the latest information on current burn bans by visiting the Department of Local Services’ Fire Safety Burn Bans page.