OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will implement seasonal fire safety restrictions beginning July 1 on lands it manages across Eastern Washington. The new rules aim to reduce wildfire risks amid heightened fire danger forecasts for the region.
Kevin Connally, Lands Division Manager at WDFW, emphasized the importance of public cooperation in protecting both people and wildlife. “These restrictions help protect local communities, as well as critical wildlife habitat, and we all have a responsibility to our shared outdoor spaces,” Connally said.
The following activities will be restricted until further notice:
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Campfires and Open Flames: Banned entirely, even in fire rings. Only personal stoves and lanterns using propane or liquid petroleum are permitted.
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Target Shooting: Prohibited, except for lawful hunting. Until August 15, shooting is allowed daily from sunrise until 10 a.m. only at two designated WDFW shooting ranges—the Methow Wildlife Area Unit and Asotin Creek Wildlife Area Unit. From August 16 through September 15, all target shooting is banned on WDFW lands.
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Smoking: Limited to enclosed vehicles.
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Use of Open Flames or Power Tools: Welding, chainsaws, and torches are prohibited.
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Motor Vehicle Use: Driving off developed roads is not allowed. Vehicles must park in designated areas or within 10 feet of a roadway in non-vegetated areas.
Fireworks remain banned year-round on all WDFW-managed properties. The agency also reminded the public that throwing lit materials from vehicles on state highways is illegal throughout the year.
Additional updates and details are available at wdfw.wa.gov/about/wdfw-lands/wildfire.
WDFW manages over one million acres of land and hundreds of water access areas statewide. These fire prevention efforts are part of the agency’s broader mission to conserve and protect Washington’s natural resources for future generations.
