Skip to content

Washington County Office of Emergency Management Issues Burn Ban Due to Increased Fire Risk

Washington County, MD (March 3, 2025) – Effective immediately, by order of the Board of County Commissioners, the Washington County Office of Emergency Management has issued a countywide burn ban due to heightened fire danger. The ban is in response to prolonged dry conditions, elevated temperatures, and increased wind activity, which significantly raise the risk of wildfires.

The burn ban prohibits all outdoor open burning, including but not limited to:

  • Campfires
  • Open fire pits
  • Burning of debris and brush
  • Agricultural burns
  • Any other open flame activity that could pose a fire hazard

“This precautionary measure is essential to protect lives, property, and natural resources,” said Alan Matheny, Director of the Washington County Office of Emergency Management. “We urge all residents and businesses to comply with the burn ban to prevent accidental wildfires and ensure the safety of our community.”

Residents are encouraged to use alternative methods of disposal for yard debris, such as mulching or taking waste to designated drop-off locations. The County will continue to monitor conditions and lift the burn ban when it is deemed safe to do so.

Violators of the burn ban may be subject to fines and penalties.

For further information or updates on the burn ban, please contact Washington County’s Public Relations and Marketing Department at 240-313-2380 or [email protected].

###

Other news:

TRAFFIC ALERT: Road Closure on Bottom Road

TRAFFIC ALERT: Road Closure on Bottom Road

WILLIAMSPORT, MD (June 19, 2026) – The Washington County Highway Department announces an upcoming road closure on Bottom Road between the Tannery…
Federal Disaster Declaration Issued Following April Freeze: New Resources Available for Maryland Agricultural Producers

Federal Disaster Declaration Issued Following April Freeze: New Resources Available for Maryland Agricultural Producers

HAGERSTOWN, MD (June 17, 2026) – The Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development would like to share important information following…
Washington County Announces Completion of Tennis Court Resurfacing at Marty Snook Park

Washington County Announces Completion of Tennis Court Resurfacing at Marty Snook Park

WASHINGTON COUNTY, MD (June 17, 2026) – Washington County Parks & Recreation announces the completion of resurfacing and maintenance improvements at the…