Effective immediately, by order of the Board of County Commissioners, the Washington County Office of Emergency Management has issued a countywide burn ban due to heightened fire danger. The ban is in response to prolonged dry conditions, elevated temperatures, and increased wind activity, which significantly raise the risk of wildfires.
The burn ban prohibits all outdoor open burning, including but not limited to:
- Campfires
- Open fire pits
- Burning of debris and brush
- Agricultural burns
- Any other open flame activity that could pose a fire hazard
“This precautionary measure is essential to protect lives, property, and natural resources,” said Alan Matheny, Director of the Washington County Office of Emergency Management. “We urge all residents and businesses to comply with the burn ban to prevent accidental wildfires and ensure the safety of our community.”
Residents are encouraged to use alternative methods of disposal for yard debris, such as mulching or taking waste to designated drop-off locations. The County will continue to monitor conditions and lift the burn ban when it is deemed safe to do so.
Violators of the burn ban may be subject to fines and penalties.
