Jefferson County entered its summer fire restriction season on May 4, 2026 — more than two months earlier than the standard July 1 start date — due to elevated atmospheric and field conditions. With July now here, those restrictions are fully entrenched and will remain in place through September 30.

Under Jefferson County Code (JCC 8.72.040), the county automatically enters a MODERATE (Blue) fire danger level each year from July 1 through September 30. This year, county and fire officials implemented that designation early due to dry spring conditions.

What the Restrictions Mean for You

Under the current MODERATE fire danger level for Jefferson County:

  • Debris burning is allowed in approved burn barrels with screens only, with a valid permit, from sunrise to 10:00 a.m. daily
  • All fires must be fully extinguished by 10:00 a.m.
  • Backyard campfires, warming fires, and cooking fires are generally allowed year-round within the Jefferson County Fire & EMS District — but conditions can change quickly
  • Always check current conditions before burning at jcfr1.org

If the Danger Level Rises

Jefferson County fire managers monitor conditions continuously throughout the summer. If fire danger escalates to HIGH (Red) or EXTREME (Black), additional restrictions take effect — including potential bans on all open burning. Residents and property owners should sign up for alerts through Jefferson County's emergency notification system.

Burning Permits

Anyone planning outdoor burning must obtain a valid permit through Jefferson County. Permits are available online at jeffco.net or through the Jefferson County Community Development office. Burning without a permit, or violating restriction hours, can result in fines — and could make you liable for suppression costs if a fire escapes.

Know Before You Go

If you're camping, recreating, or visiting public lands in Jefferson County this summer, check fire restrictions before you arrive. Conditions on BLM lands, state forest lands, and other federal lands may differ from county restrictions. The Oregon Department of Forestry maintains a fire restrictions map at oregon.gov/odf. For Central Oregon-specific updates, visit centraloregonfire.org or call the fire info line at 541-316-7711.