Puget Sound Clean Air Agency Proposes Residential Yard Waste Burning Rule

Puget Sound Clean Air Agency Proposes Residential Yard Waste Burning Rule; Public Workshops Available

The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) is proposing a rule to prohibit residential yard waste burning across the four-county region. PSCAA is the regional air quality authority for King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties.

PSCAA is hosting three free online workshops in June. Members of the public can attend to learn more, ask questions and give feedback on the proposal before the official public comment period opens this fall.

Online Workshop Dates:
  • June 11, 6-7:30 p.m.
  • June 17, 10-11:30 a.m.
  • June 24, 1-2:30 p.m.

Register at pscleanair.gov/RAOB. If you are unable to attend, a survey is also available at the same link.

What is PSCAA proposing?
Based on state law, PSCAA is proposing to prohibit burning yard waste, including leaves, clippings and prunings, across King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties. PSCAA establishes the rules for outdoor burning related to air quality. Currently, with the exception of urban growth areas, outdoor burning for the disposal of yard waste is allowed in South Kitsap’s jurisdiction. This proposal would not ban recreational fires, such as those for cooking, heating, or social purposes.

What is PSCAA’s expected timeline?
This proposal is in the early stages. The official public comment period will begin in fall 2026, with a PSCAA board decision expected in January 2027. If approved, the rule would take effect January 1, 2028.

What alternatives have PSCAA identified? 
PSCAA notes that about 99 percent of residents across the four counties have access to alternatives such as curbside pickup, drop-off sites, composting, and mulching.