The Jefferson County Fire Marshal and the Jefferson County Fire Chiefs are responsible for ensuring community safety by reducing fire risks and protecting residents, firefighters, emergency responders, property, and other community assets.
Under Jefferson County Code (JCC) 8.72.040, the County automatically enters a MODERATE (Blue) fire danger level each year from July 1 through September 30. Due to current atmospheric and observed field conditions, this designation is being implemented early for the 2026 fire season, with the MODERATE level taking effect on May 8, 2026.
After reviewing fire behavior indicators and environmental conditions, the County Fire Chiefs and the Jefferson County Fire Marshal have jointly determined that elevating the fire danger level is necessary. This decision is based on information and forecasts provided by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Olympic Region Clean Air Agency (ORCAA), National Weather Service (NWS), and other state, federal, and local partner agencies.
MODERATE Fire Danger Restrictions and Guidance:
- The following activities are prohibited: land‑clearing or yard‑debris burning, and sky lanterns. NOTE: Burn barrels are permanently banned under state law.
- Recreational fires are allowed in permanent or portable barbecues, outdoor fireplaces, or grills.
Portable fire pits, fireplaces, and chimineas are allowed when placed on non‑combustible surfaces or when surrounding combustible material is cleared down to mineral soil for at least 1.5 feet around the device. - Only natural wood may be used, and fuel must not extend outside the device.
- All fires must be constantly attended until fully extinguished.
In summary, recreational burning, or “campfire use,” is allowed during a MODERATE fire danger level, and all barbecue appliances may continue to be used. Large brush, yard‑debris, and land‑clearing fires remain restricted until a LOW fire danger level is re‑established.
Duration of Restrictions
The MODERATE (Blue) fire danger level will remain in effect until atmospheric and field conditions improve for a sustained period and the risks to residents, property, and emergency responders decrease to acceptable levels. Based on current forecasts, a minimum MODERATE level is expected to remain in place until at least September 30, 2026. Conditions will be monitored continuously, and fire danger levels are likely to be further elevated as the season progresses.
For more information, please visit the Jefferson County Department of Community Development / Office of the Fire Marshal website at: www.co.jefferson.wa.us/1687/Office-of-the-Fire-Marshal.
