Clark County interim fire marshal lifts ban on recreational fires

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Clark County Interim Fire Marshal Curtis Eavenson announced last week he has lifted the ban on recreational fires in unincorporated Clark County as of Saturday, Sept. 23 due to cooler temperatures and forecast.

Under the modified ban, burning yard debris and material from land clearing will continue to be prohibited until at least Oct. 1, if not longer, depending on fire conditions.

“Please keep in mind that just because we’ve had cooler temperatures, fires are still possible,” Eavenson said in a press release. “Don’t let down your guard.”

With the ban lift, recreational fires will be allowed in approved fire pits for all the unincorporated county areas.

According to the press release, on private land, recreational fires must comply with the following regulations:

Fires must be built in metal, rock or masonry-lined pits, such as those in established campgrounds or sold in home and garden stores.




Fires cannot exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.

• Fires must be at least 25 feet from structures or combustible materials and have at least 20 feet of overhead clearance from tree limbs, patio covers and carports.

• Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person, at least 16 years old, who can extinguish the fire using a shovel and at least five gallons of water in one or more containers or a connected hose with the water turned on.

• Fires must be extinguished by pouring water or shoveling moist soil onto flames and coals and stirring until all areas are cool to the touch.

The use of burn barrels is illegal in unincorporated Clark County.

These regulations pertain only to areas outside city limits. Residents in cities should check with their municipalities for regulations on recreational fires and other outside burning.