Recreational / Campfire

  1. Fire Marshal Burn Ban Reduction Press Release

    Due to the increase in fuel moisture levels, recreational fires will again be allowed in unincorporated Whatcom County effective 4PM Friday, September 15th, 2023. All other outdoor burning is still banned, including yard debris & land clearing fires! Read on...

  2. FIre Marshal Stage 2 Burn Ban, Effective August 16, 2023

    Due to increasingly dry weather conditions, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s office, has ordered a Stage 2 Burn Ban placing restrictions on all open burning effective at 4 PM on August 16th, 2023. Read on...
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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.