The Asotin County Commission has issued an emergency open burning ban in all unincorporated areas of the county.
Citing the dry conditions, the potential of catastrophic wild fires and threat to public safety, the commission opted to declare an emergency in order to avoid time consuming notice requirements so that a timely response may be made to the present hazard.
The ban will be in place until further notice or until October 15th. Approved propane and charcoal barbecues will still be allowed, however campfires are only permitted within designed fire pits at Chief Timothy State Park West of Clarkston.
Violators face a $50 fine for a first offense with fines of $200, $500 and up to $10,000 for additional violations.
Violators may also be charged for any costs associated with fire suppression, testing of materials, or fire investigations.
