Jefferson County's annual Fire Safety Burn Ban is in full effect as of July 1, prohibiting all open burning through September 30. With wildfires already breaking out across the region over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, officials are urging residents to treat the restrictions seriously.

The ban was codified through a resolution passed by the Jefferson County Commissioners, which established an automatic annual burn ban running July 1 through September 30 each year. Open burning — including debris burns, yard waste fires, and recreational campfires outside of designated areas — is not permitted.

What's Prohibited

Under the current restrictions, the following are banned throughout unincorporated Jefferson County:

  • Open debris burning and agricultural burning
  • Recreational campfires outside of designated campgrounds with fire rings
  • Use of burn barrels in most circumstances

Fireworks are also prohibited on all federal public lands at any time during fire season.

Why It Matters Right Now

The holiday weekend underscored just how dangerous current conditions are. A brush fire broke out July 4 at Crooked River Ranch, threatening a home before firefighters contained it. Separately, the Antelope Creek Fire ignited north of Antelope and burned more than 1,261 acres, prompting Level 3 evacuations in Wasco County. And the Coyner Fire near Redmond grew to over 20 acres with evacuation notices issued for nearby neighborhoods.

"Hot, dry summer conditions mean that even a small spark can lead to significant fire activity," said James Osborne, U.S. Wildland Fire Service Unit Fire Chief for Central Oregon. "We've seen fewer wildfire ignitions so far this year, and we believe the fire restrictions and the public's increased awareness have played a meaningful role in that progress."

How to Stay Safe

  • Check fire restrictions before camping or recreating: centraloregonfire.org
  • Only campfires in designated campgrounds with fire rings are permitted — drown, stir, and repeat until cold to the touch
  • Secure tow chains so they don't drag and spark
  • Never park or idle vehicles over dry grass — hot exhaust can ignite vegetation
  • Call 911 immediately to report smoke or fire

For outdoor burning permit information and current restrictions in Jefferson County, visit the Jefferson County Fire & EMS website at jcfr1.org.