Outdoor burning rules in Seattle, WA — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Open burning in Seattle is prohibited except during approved ceremonial events. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) issues burn bans for King County. Residential outdoor burning is not permitted in Seattle city limits.
Outdoor burning of debris, yard waste, and garbage is prohibited in Seattle. Recreational fires (cooking, pleasure, ceremonial purposes) are allowed only when all conditions are met: no air quality burn ban is in effect, fire is no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, located at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, attended by a person capable of extinguishing it at all times, and extinguished before leaving. Only charcoal, dried firewood, or manufactured firelogs may be used. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) issues air quality burn bans that prohibit all outdoor burning including recreational fires. Stage 1 and Stage 2 burn bans are called based on air pollution levels. Check burn ban status at 1-800-595-4341. It is always illegal to create smoke that bothers neighbors.
Illegal burning: citation. Burning during PSCAA burn ban: ticketing and potential prosecution. Nuisance smoke: immediate extinguishment required.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle outdoor burning.
See how Seattle's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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