Stage 1 burn ban issued for Greater Pierce County, Clean Air Agency says
High levels of overnight and early morning wood smoke have triggered a Stage 1 burn ban in Greater Pierce County, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency announced Sunday.
The ban takes effect at 2 p.m. and is in effect until further notice.
The ban does not currently include the Key Peninsula and Gig Harbor fire districts or a small portion of south Pierce County — the Roy, Ashford and Eatonville fire districts, according to a news release.
“There will be some clearing during the day today; however, we expect high levels (of wood smoke) again tonight in Pierce and Snohomish Counties due to stagnant weather conditions. This could lead to conditions that are unhealthy for sensitive groups,” a news release reads.
Sensitive groups, who should limit their time outdoors, include infants, children and people over 65, or those who are pregnant, have heart or lung diseases, respiratory infections, diabetes, stroke survivors, or are suffering from COVID-19.
Stagnant conditions are expected to persist through the weekend and into next week.
During a Stage 1 burn ban:
▪ No burning is allowed in wood-burning fireplaces, uncertified wood stoves or fireplace inserts.
▪ It is OK to use certified wood stoves or inserts, pellet stoves, and natural gas or propane stoves or inserts.
▪ The only other exception is if the homeowner has a previously approved “No Other Adequate Source of Heat” exemption from the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
▪ No outdoor fires are allowed. This includes recreational fires such as bonfires, campfires and the use of fire pits and chimneys.
▪ Burn ban violations are subject to a $1,000 penalty.
