Summer is arriving in Central Oregon, and so are fire restrictions. The Oregon Department of Forestry declared the 2026 fire season in effect beginning 12:01 a.m. on May 8, 2026, and restrictions have since tightened across federal and state-managed lands in the region — including areas within Jefferson County.

Stage 1 Public Use Restrictions (In Effect Since May 18)

Central Oregon public lands entered Stage 1 fire restrictions on May 18. Under this level:

  • Campfires are prohibited except within designated campgrounds with established fire rings
  • Wood stoves and charcoal briquette fires on public lands are prohibited
  • Woodcutting is prohibited between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
  • Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited on all federal lands in Central Oregon (and are always prohibited regardless of season)
  • Portable propane stoves and fire pits may still be allowed — always verify before use

ODF Regulated Use Closure: Prineville, Fossil, and Sisters Units

Going further, the Oregon Department of Forestry issued a Regulated Use Closure effective May 18 for the Prineville Unit, Fossil Sub-Unit, and Sisters Sub-Unit. This closure — which covers much of Jefferson County's forested and rangeland areas — also restricts:

  • Chainsaw use during high-risk hours
  • Off-road vehicle driving in fire-prone areas
  • Open burning without a written permit from the forester

Permits that were previously issued may be rescinded by the state forester based on current fire risk conditions.

What Triggers These Restrictions?

Restrictions are based on fuel moisture levels, weather forecasts, and fire weather indices. More than 70% of Oregon's wildfires are caused by human activity — sparks from equipment, unattended campfires, improperly discarded cigarettes, and fireworks. Agencies emphasize that restricting human-caused ignitions during high-risk periods is the most effective tool available before firefighting resources are needed.

Tips for Staying Legal (and Safe)

  • Check the Central Oregon Fire Information website at centraloregonfire.org or call 1-800-523-4737 before heading out
  • Never park or drive on dry vegetation
  • Secure trailer chains — dragging chains on pavement can throw sparks
  • Spark arrestors are required on OHVs, chainsaws, and other motorized equipment
  • If a campfire is permitted, keep it contained in a ring with a 15-foot clearance and always have a shovel and water nearby

Camp Sherman Voters Support Fire Staffing Levy

In a related vote, residents in the Sisters-Camp Sherman area approved a levy on May 19 to fund fire, EMS, and wildfire preparedness staffing for the Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District. The measure passed 105-55. The funding will support staffing levels during exactly the kind of high-risk summer conditions now underway.

Violations of fire restrictions can result in fines and criminal charges, and may make individuals liable for suppression costs if a fire starts. Residents are urged to take restrictions seriously throughout the summer.