PERMIT REQUIRED

Residents who live outside of the non-attainment areas are allowed to burn their yard debris.  If you aren't sure if you are in the non-attainment area, you can view the map or contact our department at 253-851-3111.  Please be aware that burn permits are required, and residential yard debris burns are PROHIBITED between June 1st through September 30th each year.

Rules to Burning Yard Waste:

• It is the responsibility of the permittee to ensure there is no burn ban or burning restrictions in place prior to burning.
• Permittee must be in attendance at the fire at all times.
• Fires shall not be built under trees or utility lines.
• Only dry, natural vegetation may be burned (limbs, sticks, branches, vines, and small stumps).
• Leaves, grass clippings, and garden waste should be composted to keep smoke to a minimum.
• A garden hose connected to a water supply is required on-site for all residential fires.  If a hose is unavailable, a shovel and 5 gallons of water must be available.

Residential fires must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Will not exceed 4 feet in diameter by 4 feet in height.
• The pile shall be 50 feet away from any structure and 10 feet from any property lines.
• A 3-foot firebreak must be maintained around the burn pile.
• The fire shall not be built under any trees or utility lines.

NOTICE:  The fire department is required to report infractions to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.  Non-compliance with these regulations can result in a civil penalty of up to $16,000 or more per day.  Please burn responsibly