Summary

Due to continuing dry weather conditions, the King County Fire Marshal is prohibiting sky lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns, without obtaining a local fire district burn permit.

Story

As hot and dry weather conditions begin to increase, outdoor fire dangers increase as well. King County is reminding residents that sky lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns, are prohibited in unincorporated King County without obtaining a local fire district burn permit.

Sky lanterns also are prohibited during fire-safety burn bans.

Sky lanterns are not classified or regulated as fireworks. However, because they have an open flame, they are regulated by the International Fire Code and state law which requires a fire permit for certain activities involving open flame, fire, and burning.

Please contact your local jurisdiction for requirements or to learn more.

For more information, visit the King County Department of Permitting and Environmental Review Fire Marshal website.