Puget Sound Clean Air Agency Proposes Residential Yard Waste Burning Rule

On August 5th the public will have a chance to ask questions about the proposed rule change from the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.

The Central Kitsap Community Council will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. The location is at the Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue Headquarters and Silverdale Water District offices, located at 5300 NW Newberry Hill Road in Silverdale.

Kitsap County Fire Chief’s Statement

Agenda Highlights:

• Puget Sound Clean Air Agency – Presenters from Puget Sound CAA will be on hand to take questions and comments, and explain a proposed rule change to residential yard waste burning.

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.