Consistent hot, dry summer weather and wildfire activity are increasing danger and prompting the decision to ban all outdoor burning on lands under DNR fire protection in Eastern Washington, including campfires
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is implementing a burn ban on lands it manages in Eastern Washington starting Friday, July 17, 2026, as hot, dry summer weather continues to increase wildfire danger statewide. Multiple wildfires are already actively burning across the state.
This includes bans on outdoor burning, campfires, and the use of charcoal briquettes on all forest lands within DNR’s fire protection in the Northeast and Southeast Regions. Pressurized liquid gas and propane stoves are permitted provided they have a functioning shut-off valve. The burn ban will remain in place until otherwise posted and is dependent on weather conditions.
“It has already been a hot summer with wildfire activity across the state, and with more warm, dry conditions still ahead of us, we need to do everything we can to keep our state and firefighters safe,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove. “I’m urging everyone across the state, including our neighbors in Eastern Washington, to do their part in preventing further wildfires from starting.”
Washington’s low winter snowpack and statewide drought are contributing to more dangerous fire conditions. Fire danger is high across Washington, and hot, dry conditions are worsening the risk of continued spread and ignition. This restriction is a critical step to reduce potential wildfire ignition from human activity while fire danger remains elevated.
Officials urge members of the public recreating outdoors to stay prepared during fire season by being alert to rapid environmental changes, checking restrictions and conditions before heading out, ensuring tow chains are properly secured and not dragging on pavement, and staying on established trails.
Residents who see smoke should call 911 to report the fire. For tips on how to stay safe during fire season, visit https://www.dnr.wa.gov/WildfirePrevention.
Wildfire statistics can be found on DNR’s Fire Dashboard at http://fireinfo.dnr.wa.gov/.
While a blanket burn ban has not been issued for DNR’s regions in Western Washington, many local ordinances already have restrictions in place. Residents should always check local restrictions before burning during the summer months.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Ryan Rodruck
Wildfire Communications Manager
Cell: 360-584-3916
Courtney James
Recreation Communications Manager
Cell: 360-522-2534
