Recent heavy rains and an increase in moisture levels has prompted the Island County fire marshal — Sheriff Mark Brown — to lift the ban on outdoor burning in the county.

The ban was lifted this past Tuesday morning based on an increase in fuel moisture levels.

In a news release this week, Brown emphasized, however, that residential yard debris and land-clearing burning remain permanently banned in Coupeville, Freeland, Langley and Oak Harbor, and their urban-growth areas.

All yard debris and land-clearing burning requires a permit where open burning is allowed. Written burn permits are issued by the Island County Health Department.

To receive a verbal permit for fires less than 4 feet in diameter, one may call the hotline at 360-240-5526.

For information about written permits for fires greater than 4 feet in diameter, call 360-679-7350.

Recreational fires less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high do not require a permit.

Burning garbage and the use of burn barrels is illegal statewide.