Skip to content

Washington County Office of Emergency Management Shares Statewide Ban on Outdoor Burning Lifted in Maryland

HAGERSTOWN, MD (November 21, 2024) – The Washington County’s Office of Emergency Management shares the following update on behalf of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR):

The Maryland DNR has announced the lifting of the statewide ban on outdoor burning, effective immediately. This decision comes as recent rainfall has alleviated elevated wildfire risks, improving safety conditions across the state.

The ban, which was enacted during a period of heightened fire danger, restricted outdoor burning activities to protect lives, property, and Maryland’s natural resources. With conditions now deemed safe for controlled burns, residents may resume outdoor burning while adhering to local and state regulations.

Important Reminders for Safe Outdoor Burning:

  • Always obtain the necessary permits or approvals from your local jurisdiction before burning.
  • Monitor weather conditions closely. Avoid burning on windy days.
  • Keep a water source or fire extinguisher readily available to control the fire if needed.
  • Never leave a fire unattended, and ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving the site.
  • Follow all local and state guidelines regarding the types of materials that may be burned.

The Maryland DNR and local emergency management offices remind the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when engaging in outdoor burning activities to prevent wildfires and ensure community safety.

For more information on outdoor burning regulations, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website at https://dnr.maryland.gov.

For additional information, please contact Washington County’s Public Relations and Marketing Department at 240-313-2380 or [email protected].

###

Other news:

Washington County Office of Emergency Management Shares Statewide Ban on Outdoor Burning Lifted in Maryland

Washington County Office of Emergency Management Shares Statewide Ban on Outdoor Burning Lifted in Maryland

HAGERSTOWN, MD (November 21, 2024) – The Washington County’s Office of Emergency Management shares the following update on behalf of the Maryland Department of…
The Washington County Public Safety Training Center Will Be Closed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024

The Washington County Public Safety Training Center Will Be Closed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024

HAGERSTOWN, MD (November 21, 2024) – The Washington County Division of Emergency Services announces that the Washington County Public Safety Training Center (PSTC) will be…
Washington County Division of Emergency Services Celebrates Life Savers Award Honorees

Washington County Division of Emergency Services Celebrates Life Savers Award Honorees

HAGERSTOWN, MD (November 19, 2024) – This morning, the Washington County Division of Emergency Services (DES), in partnership with Meritus Medical Center, proudly…
Liberal Leave is in effective for Washington County Government

LIBERAL LEAVE IS IN EFFECT FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Liberal leave is in effect for all non-essential personal on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, until noon. Essential personnel are expected to fulfill their duties as usual.

The starting time for today’s Board of County Commissioners meeting will be reevaluated at 9:00 am.

For those required to travel, exercise caution on the roadways. If driving is necessary, ensure your vehicle is completely cleared, drive at a reduced speed, practice caution, and avoid crowding or passing plows.
 
We’ll keep the public informed of any changes. Stay updated by monitoring Washington County Government’s website and social media channels for the latest information. Your safety is our priority!