Spokane County fire officials enacted a countywide fire pit ban effective June 30, 2026, prohibiting recreational fires including backyard fire pits and campfires as elevated wildfire danger threatens the region during the hot, dry summer months.
The Fire Danger Burn Restriction, signed by area fire chiefs from the Inland Northwest Fire Chiefs Association and effective at 11:59 p.m. on June 29, targets unauthorized open burning and recreational fires to reduce human-caused wildfires. Anyone caught violating the ban faces a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines, according to Spokane County officials.
Some burning remains permitted under the ban. Residents may use designated fireplaces, fire pits equipped with spark arrestors and chimneys, and propane or gas-powered patio warmers. Barbecues using briquettes, charcoal, natural gas, or propane are also allowed. However, a dug-out pit or stone ring will not meet the requirement; only properly equipped structures qualify.
The ban is intended to cut down on the risk of potentially costly and dangerous wildfires, as well as to limit health risks from smoke, said county spokeswoman Martha Lou Wheatley-Billeter. Breathing smoke affects the respiratory system and is especially harmful to younger and elderly residents and those with pre-existing heart and respiratory conditions, according to the county’s announcement.
Spokane County has a high risk of wildfire—higher than 82 percent of counties in the United States, according to the Wildfire Risk to Communities database. The burn restriction will remain in effect until the order is lifted, likely in the fall when fire danger subsides. Fire officials encourage residents with questions about burning regulations to contact their local jurisdictions before lighting any fire.
Sources
- The Spokesman-Review — Confirmed the ban’s effective date, penalties, allowed burning types, and reason for the restriction.
- Spokane County Government — Provided official announcement of the burn restriction effective June 29, 2026, and health impact information.
- City of Spokane Fire Department — Stated the ban was enacted due to elevated wildfire danger.
- Wildfire Risk to Communities — Reported that Spokane County has wildfire risk higher than 82 percent of U.S. counties.
