Burn ban extended through Oct. 15 as dry conditions persist

WENATCHEE — With two major wildfires still burning in Chelan County and little relief in sight, county officials have extended the outdoor burn ban through Oct. 15.

The ban, which typically runs from June 1 to Oct. 1, can be extended at the discretion of the Chelan County Board of Commissioners. This year, the county’s fire marshal, local fire chiefs, and state and federal partners all urged commissioners to give crews more time — with, hopefully, more favorable weather — before allowing outdoor burning again.

“It’s still very dry out there and we have two of the largest wildfires burning in the state here in Chelan County,” said Chelan County Fire Marshal Chris Pedersen. “We are hoping that a two-week extension not only gives firefighters more time to put out those fires but also for more favorable weather conditions to come in — maybe even some rain.”

The ban, approved unanimously by commissioners Monday, keeps several restrictions in place. Through mid-October, residents are reminded that outdoor burning of natural debris remains prohibited, and so does shooting outside of gun ranges, use of incendiary ammunition, or exploding targets. Motorists also may not drive off county roads except to access open public lands.

Campfires and charcoal briquette use are still off-limits, though residential propane fires, commercial barbecues, and camp stoves remain permitted. Fireworks are, of course, banned in Chelan County other than on New Year’s Eve.

Pedersen said the decision comes at a time when “fire resources are stretched super thin,” with crews battling the Lower Sugarloaf Fire near Entiat and the Labor Mountain Fire near Blewett Pass.

“It’s only a two-week extension, so we need everyone on board,” he added. “This is an easy way for you to support your local firefighters.”

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media