King County, WA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

PSCAA Regulation I defines recreational fires as small outdoor fires in approved containers used for cooking, ceremony, or personal enjoyment. Allowed fuels are clean, dry, seasoned firewood; charcoal for cooking; manufactured fire logs. Prohibited fuels include yard waste, construction debris, garbage, treated wood, paint, or anything producing dense smoke. Fire size limited to 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high. Fire must be at least 25 feet from structures, combustibles, and property lines. A competent adult must attend the fire continuously, and water or a fire extinguisher must be available. During PSCAA Stage 1 burn bans (air quality-based), uncertified wood stoves and fireplaces are banned but recreational fires in approved devices remain legal. Stage 2 burn bans prohibit ALL outdoor burning including recreational fires. DNR can issue separate burn bans for fire danger during summer months that also ban recreational fires in forested areas. King County Fire Marshal and local fire districts enforce locally. Propane and natural gas fire pits are exempt from all wood burning restrictions.