OLYMPIA – Fires on all state-managed lands is now illegal.

In response to increasing wildfire dangers fueled by hot and dry summer weather, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) implemented a burn ban across all the lands it controls effective yesterday.  This action followed the ignition of multiple wildfires across the state.

The ban will stay in place until the end of September. It prohibits outdoor burning, campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes, and prescribed burns on all forest lands under DNR’s protection. The duration of the ban may be adjusted based on evolving fire conditions.

Record-breaking temperatures had left the state extremely dry, prompting the DNR to urge all Washington residents to help protect firefighters and communities by avoiding outdoor fires and remaining vigilant.

Officials say with fire dangers remaining high and conditions worsening, the restriction aimed to minimize potential wildfire ignition sources. Officials urged the public to stay prepared during fire season by being vigilant of environmental changes, checking restrictions and conditions before heading outdoors, securing tow chains to prevent sparks, and staying on established trails.