With summer heat and dry conditions approaching, King County Fire Marshal Eric Urban has issued a Stage 1 Burn Ban for unincorporated areas, effective Monday, June 30, 2025 at 12:01 a.m.

The ban prohibits all outdoor burning of yard debris and land-clearing fires.

Recreational fires — including campfires built in approved pits — and gas or propane appliances such as grills and smokers are still allowed under specific safety conditions.

“Summer is a prime season to enjoy the outdoors, but summer also brings higher fire risks,” Urban said in a statement. “Help prevent uncontrolled fires and potential wildfires by following the Stage 1 Burn Ban. Your efforts make a difference, and both your neighbors and our first responders will thank you.”

The ban, issued in conjunction with the King County Fire Chiefs Association and King County Fire Marshals Association, comes amid predictions of warmer, drier weather that can increase wildfire danger by drying out vegetation and expanding the fuel load.

Urban also urged caution with cigarettes and ashes, and reminded residents of strict rules for recreational fires, including keeping them under three feet wide, attended at all times, and completely extinguished before leaving.

There are also rules for approved recreational or campfires:

  • Firewood must be seasoned and dry.
  • The fire must be built in a metal or concrete fire pit, like those typically found in campgrounds.
  • The fire must not be used to dispose of debris.
  • The fire must grow no larger than three feet wide.
  • The fire must be in a clear spot, at least 10 feet away from all vegetation.
  • Overhanging branches must be at least 20 feet above the flames.
  • The fire must be at least 25 feet away from any structure.
  • The fire must always be attended by an alert person with equipment that can put out the fire (such as a shovel and a five-gallon bucket of water, or a connected and charged water hose).
  • After use, campfires must be completely extinguished by pouring water or moist soil over them and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
  • No burning is allowed when the wind speed is greater than 15 miles per hour.
  • If smoke or ash from the fire causes a nuisance to any neighbors, the fire must be extinguished.

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