1. Where can I obtain a burn permit?

        You can obtain a 72 hour residential burn permit at Nielson's Lumber, located at 391 Tyee Drive.  You can obtain an annual Recreational Fire permit, or 24 hour Land Clearing permit by phoning 945-3473 to arrange a time to issue the permit.

2. What are the requirements for operating a residential or land clearing burn?

• It is the responsibility of the permit holder to prevent the nuisance of smoke, odor, or ash, that unreasonably impacts neighboring properties RCW 70.94.030 (2)
• Burn only natural vegetation.
• Burn one pile at a time of yard debris, fires not to exceed 4 feet in diameter. Land clearing fires restricted to one fire per acre, not to exceed 25 feet in diameter  
• Burn piles are at least 5 times there diameter from any structure or standing forest
• Clear the area around the burn pile of any flammable debris.
• The winds are calm or light. It is too windy to burn if trees are swaying, flags are extended, or waves appear on open water.
• Maintain a connected water hose or at least five gallons of water and a shovel nearby.
• Attend the fire until it is completely out.
• Be prepared to extinguish the fire if it becomes a nuisance.
• Call 360-945-3473 or 1-360-676-6934 to obtain updated burning information on the day of the burn.
• ( Land Clearing fires only) For the duration of any Land Clearing fire, there must be a backhoe (or equivalent), water source, and fan on-site with an operator.  Land Clearing fires are extinguished if this condition is not met.

        If Whatcom County Fire District 5 is called for a nuisance burn at your property, and one of these requirements is not met, we may be required to extinguish your fire and revoke your burn permit.

3. How do I find out if there is a burn ban in effect?

Call 360-945-3473 or 1-360-676-6934 to obtain updated burning information on the day of the burn. For up to date online burn ban status, you can check here: DNR Fire Danger in your County

4. I have another question and need help!

       You can phone Whatcom County Fire District 5 offices for non-emergency questions at 360-945-3473.