Air Quality vs. Fire Safety Burn Bans

What’s the Difference?

Air quality burn bans are issued and enforced by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency when air pollution levels rise to unhealthy levels.

• During an air quality burn ban, the use of fireplaces and uncertified wood stoves is prohibited, unless this is your only source of heat.

• All outdoor fires are banned.

• Air quality burn bans typically occur during fall and winter months and may last for up to a week or more.

Fire safety burn bans are issued and enforced by local fire departments when dry weather conditions heighten the risk of wildfires.

• During a fire safety burn ban, outdoor fires used to burn yard debris, land-clearing debris, and agricultural residue are prohibited. Recreational fires may also be prohibited.

• Fire safety burn bans are generally called during the summer and can last for several months, even into the fall.

• The air agency is not responsible for issuing or enforcing fire safety burn bans; we are happy to provide information about them as a courtesy to our local fire marshals.

• For more on fire safety bans, visit the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.