OLYMPIA — The state Department of Natural Resources has banned campfires on state land in eight counties, including Clallam and Jefferson.
“These decisions are never made lightly, but as climbing temperatures continue to dry out fuels and critical fire weather is expected across the state this weekend, it’s important to mitigate activity that could generate an ignition,” DNR said in a press release issued Friday.
“Fuels are expected to continue to dry at a very quick pace across Washington heading into next week.”
Campfires, recreational fires and charcoal and briquettes are banned on DNR-protected land in Grays Harbor, Kitsap, King, Mason, Pierce and Thurston counties, as well as on the North Olympic Peninsula.
Cooking stoves, barbecues and recreational fire pits fueled by propane or gas with a shutoff valve remain authorized.
Check with local fire district and county for additional restrictions, and the state Department of Ecology or Clean Air Authority for applicable air-quality burn restrictions.