Spokane County residents living outside the no-burn area can now burn yard and garden debris.

Residents outside the no-burn areas (see map for boundaries) may burn small piles of yard and garden debris between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until April 30.

A permit is not required, except for residents living in southeast Spokane County.

Those who burn must follow the Spokane County Air Pollution Control Authority’s burning guidelines to ensure safety and minimize damage to air quality, said Lisa Woodard, SCAPCA spokesperson.

“First and foremost, residents need to make sure they live outside the county’s no-burn area,” said Woodard.

Current guidelines allow burning of only dry natural vegetation, such as lawn clippings, leaves and pine needles.

Only one pile may be burned at a time, and the pile may not be more than 4 feet in diameter and 3 feet high.

Residents who wish to burn larger piles must apply to SCAPCA for a permit.

Because open burning produces harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, toxics and fine particulates, Woodard emphasized burning’s impact on air quality and the need for people to explore other options.

“From an air quality standpoint, burning has no advantages,” she said.

“Any type of burning will impact Spokane’s air quality. We really encourage people to seek alternatives.”

Depending on a resident’s land and the type of waste that needs to be disposed of, Woodard suggested mulching, composting or recycling as alternatives to burning.

Before starting a fire, residents must also call SCAPCA’s burning information hotline (456-4710) to get up-to-date information on burning conditions.

“It may be necessary to cancel or postpone burning dates if air quality or weather conditions are not favorable,” said Woodard.

“These regulations are designed to protect the air and people’s health.”

Residents of southeast Spokane County, which includes Fairfield, Waverly, Latah, Rockford and surrounding areas, need a permit for agricultural burning and for general open burning.

Permits are available from Fire Districts 11, 2 and 12 and at the Rockford and Fairfield town halls.