Local fire districts now issue burn permits; Available as of Oct. 12

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Residents can apply for burn permits via their local fire district. There is no change in cost, and permits can be obtained quickly and easily online

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

Beginning this 2026-2027 burn season, the local fire districts will be processing all burn permits for residents. Formerly accessed through the County website, burn permits are now managed through each island’s fire district and are available on their respective websites.

Why is the County no longer issuing burn permits?
In order to streamline the response to open burn calls and concerns, the fire districts will be managing the burn permit program.

Apply for your burn permit today!

San Juan Island:
- Apply for permits online at: https://permits.sjifire.org/
- Questions: (360) 378-5334
Orcas Island:
- Apply for permits online at: https://permits.orcasfire.org/
- Apply for permits in person at: Station 21, 45 Lavender Lane
- Questions: 360-376-2331
Lopez Island:
- Apply for permits online at: https://permits.stationworks.app/agency/lopezfire
- Questions: (360) 468-2991
Shaw Island:
- Apply for permits online: https://www.shawfire5.org/burnpermits
- Questions: (360) 317-6755
Outer Islands:
- Currently the County is not issuing burn permits to the Outer Islands
- Open burning less than 3 feet in diameter and 3 feet high is permitted without a permit
- The County is considering options to mitigate the hazards related to permitting larger open burning and will provide updates in the coming weeks

Residential burning reminders without a burn permit

Piles should be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and at least 50 ft away from any structures or trees.
Burn only natural materials – no trash, treated wood, plastic, or other materials that create black or heavy smoke.
Keep a charged hose or 10 gallons of water in buckets nearby and use a shovel or rake to tend the fire.
All piles must be supervised at all times until your fire is out.

Questions? Contact Christopher Jones, San Juan County Building Official at Christopherj@Sanjuancountywa.gov

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