Washington County is under a 14 day burn ban effective immediately.

The Washington County Commissioners approved the ban, due to lack of precipitation and hot weather leading to drought conditions. Washington County Commission Chair Mike Dunlap says the fire risk is too high right now.

Under the ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited, with a few exceptions. Grilling or outdoor cooking is permitted, as long as it occurs on a hard, fireproof surface that is at least 10 feet by 10 feet. Additionally, welding, grinding or gas torch work can happen as long as there is a dedicated fire watch person with means to extinguish any fire that may occur. Violators of the burn ban could face a misdemeanor charge with a $500 fine and one year in the county jail.