Restrictions are in place through at least October 15
information released
On the recommendation of partner agencies and fire chiefs, the Chelan County fire marshal is temporarily extending current fire ratings and restrictions through at least Oct. 15, or until wildfire conditions ease.
Current conditions, which are unchanged, have the fire hazard level at “high” in both the county’s Valley and Mountain zones. Stage 2 restrictions remain in place through Oct. 15.
Chelan County Code calls for any imposed travel and activity restrictions related to wildfire season to expire in the unincorporated areas on Oct. 1. The code also allows for the fire marshal to continue the restrictions and fire hazard rating until the Board of County Commissioners can formally adopt a resolution. The Board is expected to sign the resolution on Monday when it is in session.
This is the first time since 2012 that a resolution for an extension will be presented to commissioners, according to county records.
Under Stage 2 restrictions:
- Open burning, such as the burning of yard waste, is not allowed.
- Outdoor fires in recreational fire pits are not allowed.
- Citizens can use an outdoor, commercially made grill, such as a propane grill.
- Traveling off of the county roadway is not allowed.
“We still have several active fires in our area causing these smoky conditions we are experiencing,” Fire Marshal Stephen Rinaldi said. “The smoke is a clear indicator of the ongoing hot, dry conditions in Chelan County. Now is not the time to ease up on our travel and activity restrictions. We are asking the public to bear with us and to be mindful of the fire-prone conditions lingering this year.”
If Chelan County receives additional moisture and cooler temperatures in the coming weeks, the county may consider lowering those restrictions before Oct. 15, Rinaldi said.
To keep up on the current fire hazard level, visit the county’s website at www.co.chelan.wa.us.
