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County-wide burn ban reminder

Grant County commissioners and the fire marshal on Monday reminded residents that an ordinance passed in September 2018 bans outdoor burning anywhere in the county from June 1 to September 30.

“Agricultural and orchard burning are allowed when permitted by the Department of Ecology,” a Monday press release states. “Recreational campfires are still allowed in approved devices at public campgrounds when allowed by the campground authority. Recreational campfires at residences in private fire pits as long as there is 25 feet of non-combustible space around the fire pit. You will need to have a charged water hose available just in case. Large cooking fires are allowed for events whether public or private and must be permitted through the Grant County Fire Marshal’s Office in advance. Gas barbecues and charcoal barbecues are allowed when used in a safe manner. “Remember that the use of burn barrels is always prohibited by law and when burning is allowed only natural vegetation may be burned (no household garbage). When the County burn ban is lifted on September 30th burning restrictions that are normally in place and imposed by the Washington State Department of Ecology will still be in effect in regards to all cities and urban growth areas.”

Business advice offered

Allan Peterson, a certified business advisor with SBDC Washington and associated with the Grant County Economic Development Council, is taking appointments for free consultations May 30 at Electric City Hall.

Four 1.5-hour time slots are available at 9 and 10:30 a.m., and at 1:30 and 3 p.m.

The service offers no-cost, in-depth, confidential assistance with “every aspect of your business management and operation,” Peterson says.

Appointments can be made by phone at 509-762-6040 or email at allan.peterson@wsbdc.org.