Yard and Garden Debris Burning

Burning residential yard & garden debris is not allowed in most areas of Spokane County. Spokane Clean Air's Board of Directors determined in 2008 that administering a program for this type of debris burning is not in-line with the Agency's clean air mission. Instead, promoting alternatives to burning this type of debris, such as backyard composting, chipping, mulching, and even hauling is much better for ensuring cleaner air in our neighborhoods and communities.

Exception: If you live in the boundaries of Fire District 2, 5, 11 or 12, and outside an urban growth area, you may be eligible for a written permit to burn under delegation agreements with these districts. Contact the appropriate district for more information.

Residential yard and garden debris consists of leaves, needles, small tree and shrub prunings, and other natural yard and garden waste originating on residential improved property.

Silvicultural burning on unimproved property is still allowed, depending on where you live. This type of burning on unimproved residential property, is administered by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. For more information, click here.

Outdoor Burning In Spokane County- A just-released 2012 guide developed in partnership with the WA State Dept of Natural Resources - covers outdoor burning programs and rules in Spokane County, including alternatives to burning.

Home Composting—A how-to video on composting is available, click here. Many residents choose to chip or compost this material to use in their yard and garden. The next composting training will be Saturday, April 28, 2012, at the Arbor Day festivities held at the John A. Finch Arboretum.

What You Should Know About Illegal Dumping. Click here. 

Attend a free Collection & Composting Event!  Spokane Clean Air co-sponsors  "Collection/Chipping & Composting" events in outlying areas of the county each spring and fall. We partner with Spokane Regional Solid Waste System, Washington State Department of Natural Resources and our local fire districts. In addition to a free collection of residential yard/garden debris, the Spokane Master Composters/Recyclers provide composting training. 

Saturday, April 14, 10 am - 3 pm at these two locations:

• North Spokane County event, Fire Station 49 (Hwy 395 & Monroe Rd) 
• South Spokane County event, Fire Station 82, (12100 E Palouse Hwy, Valleyford)