Washington introduces Smokey Bear license plate to combat wildfires

SEATTLE — Washington state has unveiled its first Smokey Bear license plate, a new initiative aimed at raising funds to combat human-caused wildfires.

Governor Bob Ferguson signed SBB 5444 into law on Tuesday, authorizing the special license plate that will support the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) efforts in wildfire prevention and aid wildland firefighters.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Smokey Bear license plates could be coming to Washington

“It’s fitting that our state’s first Smokey Bear license plate has been passed by the State Legislature during Wildfire Awareness Month,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove in a press release. “Approximately 90 percent of wildfires every year are human-caused. We couldn’t have a better advocate for wildfire prevention crisscrossing Washington along our interstates, highways and roads than Smokey.”

The Smokey Bear license plate will be available for purchase starting November 1, with an initial fee of $40 and a renewal fee of $30.

Proceeds will benefit the DNR’s wildfire prevention programs.

Since 1944, Smokey Bear has been a global symbol of wildfire prevention. The new license plate will allow Washingtonians to show their support for firefighters and contribute to efforts to significantly reduce the number of wildfires caused by humans.

It also aims to raise public awareness about wildfire prevention, emphasizing the role everyone can play in ensuring community safety.