Due to the increase in “fuel moisture levels,” the Island County Sheriff’s Office has lifted the ban on outdoor burning. The lift went into effect Tuesday.

Residential yard debris and land-clearing burning are permanently banned in Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, Oak Harbor and surrounding urban areas.

All yard debris and land-clearing burning will require a permit where open burning is allowed. All written burn permits will be issued through the Island County Health Department, according to the sheriff’s office.

To obtain a verbal permit for residential fires less than four feet in diameter, call either 360-240-5526 and listen to the required conditions or call Northwest Clean Air Agency at 360-428-1617, ext. 4.

To obtain a written permit for fires over four feet in diameter, call 360-679-7350 on North and Central Whidbey or 360-321-5111, ext. 7350, on South Whidbey.

The Health Department website has additional information on permits.

Recreational fires less than three feet in diameter and two-feet high do not require a permit.

As always, burning garbage and the use of burn barrels is illegal statewide and subject to fines than can exceed $1,000.

If your property falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources, call 360-856-3500 for burn permit information.