The Northwest Clean Air Agency is calling a Stage 1 air quality burn ban for Island, Skagit and Whatcom counties because high levels of harmful wildfire smoke particles are impairing local air quality.
The ban began at 8 a.m. Monday and will continue until further notice.
This air quality burn ban is separate from, and in addition to, fire safety burn bans already in effect because of increased fire danger in the three counties.
No outdoor burning is allowed, including residential and agricultural burning, during a Stage 1 air quality burn ban. Home heating with fireplaces and uncertified wood stoves is also prohibited. This ban includes recreational fires like campfires and fire pits.
Burn ban violators could face fines and other enforcement actions.
Check NWCAA’s website (www.nwcleanairwa.gov) for up-to-date burn ban information or check Twitter (@NWCleanAir) or NWCAA’s Facebook page.