Jefferson County's summer burning restrictions took effect on Monday, May 4, and officials are urging residents to take them seriously — with early signals pointing to a wildfire season that could be among the most dangerous Oregon has seen in a decade.
What the Restrictions Mean for Residents
Under the current Level 1 restrictions, the following rules apply throughout Jefferson County:
- Burning is allowed only in approved burn barrels with spark-arresting screens, and only with a valid permit
- Burning hours are limited to sunrise to 10:00 a.m. daily
- Campfires and recreational fires must follow specific guidelines — check with Jefferson County or ODF for current campfire rules
- Agricultural burning may require additional approval
Residents are encouraged to check for updates before lighting any fire, as conditions can escalate restrictions with little warning.
A Dangerous Season Ahead
State fire officials and Governor Tina Kotek held a briefing earlier this month warning that Oregon's 2026 wildfire season is expected to start early and last into October — a longer window than most years.
The combination of a warm, dry winter, record-low snowpack in many mountain ranges, El Niño conditions, and continued drought has fire scientists increasingly concerned. The NOAA spring outlook projects continued dry conditions across the Pacific Northwest, closing the window for a late rainy-season reprieve.
"I am increasingly concerned 2026 could rival 2015 as the warmest calendar year on record in Oregon," Oregon Department of Forestry fire meteorologist Sean O'Neill noted in a recent statement. That comparison is significant — 2015 was one of the most catastrophic fire years in Oregon's recorded history.
Already Active This Spring
The Pine Mountain Fire in nearby Deschutes County reached 2,589 acres before being brought to 85% containment earlier this month — an early reminder that the season is already underway, not just approaching. Several human-caused fire incidents have also prompted increased concern from officials.
Residents Can Help
Fire officials are asking Central Oregon residents to take fire prevention seriously this summer:
- Never leave campfires unattended
- Properly dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials
- Avoid using equipment that creates sparks on dry, windy days
- Report smoke to 911 immediately — early reporting saves acres
Jefferson County Emergency Management and ODF's Prineville Unit can be reached for questions about current restrictions. Updates are also posted at jeffco.net.