Report burning and air quality issues

Report illegal burning or smoke

Have the following information ready:

• Your name and phone number (If we don't have this, we won't be able to call you if we need more information. However, you may call anonymously.)
• Date and time of burning
• The town and county you're reporting
• Specific location of smoke (if known)
• Source of smoke (if known)
• Land owner and/or burner (if known)
• A detailed description of the complaint, including what is being burned

What and where you can burn

​When you burn, smoke must not impact your neighbors.  You must put out your fire if it does. Learn about what is legal to burn.  Always check for a burn ban before you burn.

Quick facts:

• Burning in a burn barrel is illegal in Washington.
• Outdoor burning is illegal in all urban growth areas. If you don't live in an urban growth area, you can burn yard waste (like leaves, grass, brush, and other yard trimmings) as long as smoke doesn't impact neighbors.  Consider alternatives to burning.
• For agricultural burning to clear land, remove crop residue and pest infestations, you must first get a permit. Smoke from an agricultural burn must not affect others or endanger their health.

Why outdoor burning is a problem

Smoke from outdoor burning pollutes the air, causing serious health problems. Much like cigarette smoke, the smoke from burning leaves, grass, brush, and tree needles can cause asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Children, the elderly, and those with breathing problems are hurt the most by unhealthy air.

Burning also pollutes water and soil when smoke particles fall into them.

Backyard fires can get out of control fast and cause wildfires. You can be held responsible for the cost of putting out your fire, which can be expensive and dangerous.

Smoke from outdoor burning can be just as bad for your health as cigarette smoke. Protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors by choosing not to burn.