A Stage 2 burn ban will take effect across unincorporated Whatcom County and Lummi Island at 8 a.m. on Friday, July 17, as fire officials respond to increasingly dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk.

The restriction, announced by the Whatcom County Fire Marshal's Office in coordination with the Lummi Island Volunteer Fire Department, prohibits all open burning until further notice. The ban includes recreational campfires, yard debris burning, and land clearing fires.

Officials said the burn ban is necessary because of ongoing dry weather and low fuel moisture levels, which increase the potential for fires to spread rapidly.

Propane-fueled fire pits that do not burn wood remain permitted, as do propane and charcoal barbecues. Residents are urged to use caution when disposing of hot charcoal or ashes. Wood-burning fire pits, charcoal fire pits, and similar outdoor fire enclosures equipped with grates or screens are not considered barbecues and are prohibited under the Stage 2 burn ban.

Anyone who violates the burn restrictions may face a minimum fine of $250. Officials also warned that individuals responsible for illegal fires that escape containment could face criminal charges and be held financially liable for any resulting damage.

The Stage 2 burn ban will remain in effect until further notice and may be adjusted as weather conditions and wildfire danger change. Residents seeking more information about outdoor burning restrictions can contact the Whatcom County Fire Marshal's Office at 360-778-5900 or call the Whatcom County Burn Information Line at 360-778-5903 for the latest burn ban updates.