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Outdoor Burning
As of 7:00 a.m. on October 13th, 2025, due to the increase in fuel moisture levels and a return to more typical seasonal weather patterns, the Fire Marshal has lifted the ban on outdoor burning in Island County.
It is important to remember that residential yard debris and land-clearing burning are permanently banned in Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, and Oak Harbor (and their urban growth areas).
All yard debris and land-clearing burning will require a permit where open burning is allowed. All written burn permits will be issued through the Island County Health Department.
To obtain a verbal permit for residential fires less than 4 feet in diameter, call either 360-240-5526 and listen to the required conditions or call Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617, EXT 4.
To obtain a written permit for fires over 4 feet in diameter, call 360-679-7350
See below for additional permit information.
Recreational fires less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high do not require a permit.
As always, burning garbage and the use of burn barrels is illegal STATE WIDE and subject to fines that can exceed $1,000.00.
If your property falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources, please call 360-856-3500 for burn permit information.
For air quality issues, call the Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617.
SHERIFF RICK FELICI, Island County Fire Marshal
OUTDOOR BURNING INFORMATION
FOR ISLAND COUNTY, CALL THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT AT: 360.679.7350
FOR NORTHWEST CLEAN AIR AGENCY CALL 360.428.1617
Obtaining a Burn Permit
Burn permits must be submitted in person at Island County Public Health's Coupeville or Camano Island Office.
- Burn Permit Application - Main application form for different types of burn permits.
- All yard debris and land-clearing burning will require a permit where open burning is allowed. All written burn permits will be issued through the Island County Health Department.
- A written permit for fires over 4 feet in diameter can be obtained in person (Whidbey Island) at Island County Public Health, 1 N.E. 6th, Coupeville, WA, or in person (Camano Island) at 121 E. Camano Dr. Camano Island, WA. Call 360-679-7350 (North and Central Whidbey), 360-321-5111, ext. 7350 (South Whidbey), and 360-678-8261 (Camano Island).
- Recreational fires less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high do not require a permit.
Types of Burning Permits
- Land Clearing Burning - Permit Required
- Pile size must not exceed 25 feet in diameter x 25 feet high.
- Permit fee: $120 for a one-day permit
- Residential Burning - Permit Required
- Pile size must not exceed 10 feet in diameter x 10 feet high.
- Permit fee: $50 for three consecutive days
- Recreational Burning
- Recreational fires 3 feet in diameter x 2 feet high or smaller do not require a permit. These fires are made from charcoal or firewood and are used for cooking or pleasure.
- Note: Burning anything other than natural vegetation or firewood is prohibited.
Helpful Resources
- Wildfire Smoke and Health Resources - Stay safe and healthy during wildfire smoke events.
- Northwest Clean Air Agency - Regulatory and educational guidance.