Two practical and urgent announcements from fire and environmental officials affect every Jefferson County resident this week — one restricting what you can burn, and one advising how much time you should spend outdoors.

Burn Barrel Ban: Effective August 4

Jefferson County Fire & EMS Interim Fire Chief Kasey Skaar announced Tuesday that the use of burn barrels and debris piles is prohibited effective August 4, 2026, through the remainder of the fire season. The prohibition applies county-wide and covers all outdoor open burning of yard waste, debris, and agricultural material under the residential burn barrel program.

“Jefferson County Fire & EMS and surrounding agencies throughout Central Oregon have experienced an unprecedentedly active fire season this year. Due to the increased fire activity and the number of fires across the landscape, we are taking additional precautions to help protect our community.” — Interim Fire Chief Kasey Skaar

The ban will be lifted at a later date in fall when conditions improve. Individuals participating in the Smoke Management Program are not affected by the ban but must continue coordinating burns with the program and fire district to ensure compliance.

Violations of fire restrictions can carry significant fines. Residents with questions should call Jefferson County Fire & EMS at (541) 475-3714.

What Is Still Allowed (and What Is Not)

  • Prohibited: Burn barrels, debris piles, yard waste burning, agricultural open burning outside the Smoke Management Program
  • Also prohibited on all public lands (Stage 2 restrictions since July 22): Campfires, charcoal fires, and wood fires in any form
  • Propane/gas camp stoves: Generally still allowed on public lands under Stage 2 — check centraloregonfire.org for specific details
  • Fireworks: Remain illegal on public lands and are strongly discouraged county-wide

Air Quality Advisory Covers Jefferson County

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an ongoing air quality advisory for Jefferson County and surrounding areas, including Crook, Wasco, Hood River, Wallowa, northern Malheur, Union, and Baker counties. The advisory is expected to remain in effect indefinitely as smoke from multiple large fires continues to drift through the region.

What the Numbers Mean

  • Under 100: Moderate — air quality is acceptable
  • 100–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups (asthma, heart/lung conditions, young children, infants, elderly, pregnant individuals)
  • 151 and above: Unhealthy for everyone

Protecting Yourself

  • Stay indoors as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed
  • Use HEPA air purifiers or high-efficiency air filters if available
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity on high-smoke days
  • N-95 or P100 respirators (NIOSH-approved) provide outdoor protection for adults — note these do not come in children’s sizes
  • Check current air quality at the OregonAIR app or at oregonsmoke.org

People with health questions related to smoke exposure can contact the Jefferson County Public Health department at (541) 475-4456.