The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency elevated the burn ban in Pierce County on Tuesday due to worsening air quality and cold weather.
A Stage 2 burn ban took effect at noon, the agency announced.
Under a Stage 2 burn ban:
• No burning is allowed in any wood-burning fireplaces, pellet stoves, wood stoves or fireplace inserts. The only exception is a wood stove that is a home’s only adequate source of heat.
• No outdoor fires, including bonfires and campfires, are allowed.
The ban is in effect until further notice. Violators face up to a $1,000 fine.
The agency reports that it is OK to use natural gas and propane stoves or inserts during a stage 2 ban.
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