Can i barbecue during a burn ban

An air-quality burn ban is a mandatory, yet temporary, order that restricts the use of wood stoves and wood-burning fireplaces, as well as outdoor wood burning, when air quality is degraded and human health may be adversely impacted. Air-quality burn bans typically occur during fall and winter months and may last for up to a week or more.

Regulatory authority to issue burn bans vary by county and may include government or clean air authorities, or a combination, to pass and put burn bans into effect. The smoke from burning wood and wood-based products contains fine particles soot and a toxic mix of other carcinogens, which are harmful to your health, particularly for young children, older adults and people with respiratory and heart disease.

During stagnant weather conditions, concentrations of wood smoke can reach harmful levels, so we restrict wood smoke emissions to protect air quality in our neighborhoods and the health of those living there.

However, depending on the area and current regulations, gas fire pits or tables may be used during burn bans due to their smoke-free design. Please consult your local government before using any gas appliances. Following state burn ban requirements. Stage 1 burn bans are called on the basis of weather conditions and rising pollution levels — when we predict we may violate air quality standards.

Stage 2 burn bans are called when fine particle pollution levels reach a trigger value set by state law. For more information in your area, view your local county managed website. Notification for changes to burn bans may vary. Some counties send e-newsletters to subscribers, most post on their websites and announce in local online and print newspapers when burn bans are issued and cancelled, or advise when weather conditions indicate a ban is likely.

Some areas also provide burn ban hotlines, so check by country. General guidelines below: During a Stage 1 burn ban: No burning is allowed in wood-burning fireplaces, uncertified wood stoves or uncertified fireplace inserts unless this is your only adequate source of heat. Even those using a certified device or those for whom this is their only adequate source of heat cannot generate visible smoke. All outdoor burning is prohibited, even in areas where outdoor burning is not permanently banned.

Investigate TV. Gray DC Bureau. Under a burn ban? What you can and can't do. Published: Sep. Share on Facebook. Email This Link. Share on Twitter. Public Education Programs. Fire Extinguisher Self-Inspection Program. Building Inspection Program. Burn Ban Information. Print Friendly. Outdoor Burning Regulations Small recreational fires are allowed in the City of Tacoma when the following use conditions have been met and the smoke does not bother your neighbors.

What about Barbecues? What is a Recreational Fire? A recreational fire meets all of the following: The fire is not contained in an outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill or barbecue pit. Think "campfire style" fire. If the fire is contained, see portable fire devices with open flame below. The fire has a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height.

The fire is for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth or similar purposes. The fire is not on public property where fires are prohibited, such as in a park or on school grounds. Use Conditions for Recreational Fires Only clean natural firewood, charcoal or manufactured fire logs are permissible fuels. Fire extinguisher with a rating of 4-A or greater or a charged hose with a nozzle attached is required to be readily available.

If the wind creates a hazard of fire spread, the fire shall be extinguished. Vegetation or other combustible material creating a path for fire spread shall be removed prior to starting the fire. Fire shall be attended by an adult at all times. Portable Fire Devices with Open Flames A non-combustible device such as a fire pit, fire bowl or chiminea that contains the fire.

Burning garbage is illegal. Burning cardboard or paper, except to start a fire, is illegal. Burning building materials i. Burning dead animals is illegal. Burning of plastic, rubber, trash or other prohibited fuel may constitute an unauthorized release of hazardous material to the atmosphere. Enforcement All illegal or unattended fires shall be extinguished immediately.

Hide Caption. Wildfire prevention: Campfire safety. As temperatures in Oregon rise, so does the danger for wildfires. Here are tips to prevent wildfires by keeping your campfire safe.