Burn restrictions begin Monday for Spokane region

Spokane-area fire marshals announced burn restrictions taking effect Monday for Spokane, Spokane Valley, Spokane County, Cheney, Airway Heights and Deer Park.

All recreational fires and open burning are not allowed. Manufactured portable outdoor devices and approved fuels in appropriate devices are allowed. Designated campfires in parks and campgrounds may be allowed, depending on approval and jurisdiction.

“Burn restrictions are put in place to keep us all safe and healthy,” said Greg Rogers, Spokane Valley Fire Department fire marshal, in a statement. “After a review of the short-range weather forecast and the low humidity for Spokane County and discussions with our area Fire Chief partners, we feel it is prudent to initiate Burn Restrictions for Spokane County until further notice.”

People in violation of the burn restrictions can be charged with a misdemeanor. If citizens are unsure if a fire in permissible they can call area law enforcement’s non-emergency number with questions.

“The hot-dry conditions produce increased fire risk,” said Megan Phillips, city of Spokane fire marshal, in a statement. “We want to mitigate that risk as much as possible by enacting burn restrictions area wide thus protecting all communities from the risk of human-caused wildfire.”

With COVID-19, the fire marshals said keeping air quality as smoke-free as possible is a priority.