Jefferson County residents should be aware that summer burn restrictions went into full effect at sunset on Sunday, May 3 — earlier than many years, reflecting growing concern about fire conditions heading into what state officials describe as a potentially severe and prolonged 2026 fire season.
What the Restrictions Mean
Under the current burn restrictions, open burning across Jefferson County is prohibited. Limited burning is still permitted under the following conditions:
- Burning is allowed only in approved burn barrels with screens, with a valid permit
- Burning hours are limited to sunrise to 10:00 a.m. daily
- All fires must be attended and fully extinguished
Residents who burn outside these restrictions risk citations and liability for any fires that escape. Jefferson County Fire and EMS and the Sheriff's Office are both enforcing the restrictions. Burn permits and information are available through the Jefferson County website at jeffco.net.
A Dire State Forecast
The early restrictions are no accident. Oregon fire officials warned at a statewide press conference on May 5 — held with Gov. Tina Kotek — that 2026 is shaping up as one of the most challenging fire seasons in years.
Oregon's winter was among the warmest on record. Snowpack across the Northwest sits at roughly one-third of normal levels, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. An emerging El Niño weather pattern could further increase temperatures and lightning storm frequency through the fall.
"All indications suggest a more challenging fire season ahead of all of us." — Gov. Tina Kotek
The season has already seen action: the Riverview Fire in La Pine in March became the first Level 3 evacuation fire of 2026, burning 20 acres. That's notable for March — a month that typically falls well before peak fire season.
Human Causes Driving Risk
State data from 2025 showed that more than 60% of Oregon wildfires were started by humans — a concerning trend that fire officials are working to reverse. Residents are urged to be especially cautious with campfires, debris burning (even when permitted), equipment use near dry vegetation, and anything else that could spark a fire.
Wildfire Preparedness Fair on May 20
Jefferson County Fire and EMS is hosting a Wildfire Preparedness Fair on May 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the fire station. Residents can learn about defensible space, go-bags, evacuation planning, and how to protect homes from ember intrusion — the leading cause of home losses in wildfires.
The fair coincides with election night, making it an opportunity for community members to gather, learn, and connect. Jefferson County Fire and EMS is also scheduled to host a public open house at its newly remodeled fire station on May 29, giving residents a look at updated facilities and a chance to meet their local firefighters.
With fire season already underway statewide, the time to prepare is now — not when smoke is on the horizon.