Sheriff lifts burn ban at 7 a.m. Oct. 13

Due to the increase in fuel moisture levels and a return to more typical seasonal weather patterns, the Fire Marshal will lift the ban on outdoor burning in Island County as of 7:00 a.m. October 13, 2025.

It is important to remember that residential yard debris and land-clearing burning are permanently banned in Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, and Oak Harbor (and their urban growth areas).

All yard debris and land-clearing burning will require a permit where open burning is allowed. All written burn permits will be issued through the Island County Health Department.

To obtain a verbal permit for residential fires less than 4 feet in diameter, call either 360-240-5526 and listen to the required conditions or call Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617, EXT 4.

To obtain a written permit for fires over 4 feet in diameter, call 360-679-7350 (North and Central Whidbey), 360-321-5111 EXT 7350 (South Whidbey), and 360-387-3443 EXT 228 (Camano Island).

Visit https://www.islandcountywa.gov/625/Outdoor-Burning for additional permit information.

Recreational fires less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high do not require a permit.

As always burning garbage and the use of burn barrels is illegal STATE WIDE and subject to fines than can exceed $1,000.00.

If your property falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources, please call 360-856-3500 for burn permit information.

For air quality issues, call the Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617.

SHERIFF RICK FELICI, Island County Fire Marshal