Recreational / Campfire

Regulations- Recreational fires must meet the following requirements:


  • No permit is required for recreational fires in Whatcom County
  • Must only contain seasoned firewood or charcoal
  • Must be contained in an enclosure no larger than 3 feet by 3 feet and must be 16 inches high made of cement blocks, stones or steel.
  • Beach fires (where allowed) can be dug into an 8" deep pit, surrounded by 4" high enclosure rocks.
  • 25 feet from structures, timber, and combustible material
  • 15 feet overhead clearance required
  • A charged garden hose or (2) 5-gallon buckets full of water to be next to the fire.
  • A shovel or rake capable of stirring and extinguishing the fire to be on-site
  • Recreational fires are allowed after dark, if attended by someone 16 years or older at all times.
  • Fires must be attended until out cold.
  • No burning when winds exceed 7 MPH.
  • Must have landowner permission to light all fires.