Fire Restrictions in Chelan County Lowered to Stage 1

CHELAN COUNTY — Chelan County reduced fire restrictions to Stage 1, effective last Friday. The adjustment permits homeowners to engage in residential campfires within designated areas, including portable fire pits. However, the ban on outdoor open burning of grass, leaves, brush, and other natural materials will remain in place until at least October 1.

Chelan County Fire Marshal Stephen Rinaldi emphasizes the continued high fire danger rating in the county. “If you are going to have a campfire, continue to use caution,” Rinaldi said. “The fuel load, or the amount of dry, combustible material around us, is still very high. We are not out of fire season yet.”

Stage 1 restrictions, complete details of which can be found on the county's website at www.co.chelan.wa.us/news/article/current-fire-hazard-designation-and-restrictions, encompass various regulations:

• The use of exploding targets and incendiary ammunition is prohibited.
• Motorists cannot drive off a county roadway except to access open public lands.
• Fires are allowed in commercial barbecues and camp stores.
• Fireworks are prohibited in Chelan County.