A message from San Juan County Fire Marshal Steve Marler.

Our weather is finally getting better. We’re starting to see the sun more often. Unfortunately, along with the great weather comes an increased risk of fires. As the sun starts to dry out our islands after a very wet winter, the time for burn piles has come to an end for this year. All burn permits expire after June 30. Controlled burning should resume next October, depending upon fire risk conditions at that time.

Recreational fires – fires that are two feet in diameter or less – continue to be allowed. Barbecues and fireplaces are also not affected by the end of the burn permit season.

For further information, contact your local fire district or call the fire marshal’s office at 378-3473. On Orcas Island, contact Deputy Fire Marshal Paul Turner at 376-2331.