Jefferson County residents can once again burn yard debris at home after summer fire season restrictions were lifted on October 1 — but fire officials are reminding the public that rules still apply, and temporary closures can happen anytime conditions call for it.

Burn Season Is Open — With Conditions

The Jefferson County Fire & EMS Department reinstated residential open burning on October 1, marking the end of the extended summer restrictions that took effect during peak fire season. However, burning can be temporarily suspended at any time due to poor air quality, high winds, Red Flag Warnings issued by the National Weather Service, or other elevated fire-weather conditions.

Before lighting any burn pile, residents should check current status at jcfr1.org, where the department posts updates whenever temporary closures go into effect. When in doubt, call the district before burning.

Know the Rules

When open burning is permitted in Jefferson County, residents must follow these basic guidelines:

  • Burn only clean yard debris — no household trash, treated or painted wood, cardboard, or garbage
  • Keep burn piles a manageable size for the conditions at hand
  • Have a garden hose, water source, or hand tools on-site before igniting
  • Never leave a burn unattended
  • Extinguish all burns completely before dark

FireFree Events: Drop It Off Instead

Not everyone wants to — or can — burn yard debris at home. Jefferson County Fire & EMS participates in FireFree debris drop-off events twice each fall, held over two weekends in October at the Box Canyon Transfer Station. These free community events allow residents to haul yard debris, brush, and other eligible material without burning it themselves.

For specific dates, times, and a list of accepted materials, visit jcfr1.org/community-events or call Jefferson County Fire & EMS at (541) 475-7274.

Be a Considerate Neighbor

Fall burn season is a welcome change after months of restrictions, but fire officials urge residents to think about their neighbors before striking a match. Smoke from yard burns can settle in low-lying areas on calm, cool autumn mornings — conditions that are increasingly common as temperatures drop. If a neighbor has respiratory problems, or if you're burning near a school or care facility, consider using the FireFree program as an alternative.

Jefferson County Fire & EMS is located at 765 S. 5th Street in Madras. For the latest information on burn restrictions and status, visit jcfr1.org.