— from OIFR Chief Kevin O’Brien —

With the recent rains, elevated humidity, and lower temperatures, our island vegetation fuel moisture levels indicate a “low” fire danger. We anticipate the weather to continue on a pattern that keeps us in the “low” range.

Residential and commercial burning is now open with a valid permit. Residential permits cost $15.00 and may be purchased online at https://www.sjcfiremarshal.org or at the Eastsound Fire Hall 21 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Residential permits allow fires that are ten feet in diameter and are valid through June of 2015. Commercial permits cost $225 and are valid for 30 days. Commercial permits may only be purchased at the Eastsound Fire Hall.

Camp fires that are two feet in diameter do not require a permit.

Please burn responsibly. All fires should be attended at all times with a water supply available. Be sure your fire is “dead out” when you are finished burning.