Agency reiterates outdoor burning laws

Complaints spur reminder of ban in urban growth areas

JOHN DODGE, THE OLYMPIAN

Originally published Friday, March 8, 2002

THURSTON COUNTY -- After a rash of complaints the past two weeks, air quality officials are reminding South Sound residents that outdoor burning is illegal in urban growth areas.

"You need to be aware of where you live," said Robert Moody of the Olympic Air Pollution Control Authority.

His agency has responded to 10 smoke complaints in the past two weeks, many from residents in urban neighborhoods where outdoor burning of yard debris is not allowed, he said.

Outdoor burning has been illegal since Jan. 1, 2001, inside the urban growth boundaries surrounding Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater.

It's been illegal inside the city limits for nearly 10 years.

"Maybe we have a lot of new people unfamiliar with the law moving into the area," Moody said.

Smoke from outdoor burning contains microscopic particles that can be particularly harmful to babies, children, the elderly and those with respiratory problems.

Early spring is a popular time for burning yard debris, despite the public health concerns, said air pollution control agency spokesman Craig Weckesser.

Cooper Point resident Helga Teske said smoke from outdoor burning and wood stoves lingered in her neighborhood last weekend.

"My son has respiratory problems, and we both have allergies," said Teske, 65.

"People should be aware that they are hurting the health of others."

First-time offenders of the burn ban face a penalty from $100 to $1,000, Moody said. The penalty is usually suspended, however, unless there is a repeat offense.

The maximum penalty for a repeat offender is $10,000.

John Dodge covers the environment and energy for The Olympian. He can be reached at 360-754-5444 or by e-mail at jdodge@ olympia.gannett.com.

To learn more

For more information about outdoor and indoor burning, call the Olympic Air Pollution Control Authority at 360-438-8768, Ext. 115, or visit www.oapca.org.

The Olympian Copyright 2002

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