Gov. Parris N. Glendening lifted a ban on outdoor burning except in the four westernmost counties yesterday, saying rain had reduced the fire danger in most of Maryland.

The ban on open burning near wooded areas and in state parks and public forests took effect Nov. 26. Since Sept. 1, the state Forest Service has responded to 404 fires that have burned 809 acres, Glendening said.

Rain fell across much of Maryland Tuesday and yesterday. The precipitation amounted to less than a half-inch in Western Maryland, and the ban remains in effect in Frederick, Washington, Allegany and Garrett counties, the governor said in a statement.

Pub Date: 12/10/98