Fire season came early to Central Oregon this year. The Oregon Department of Forestry officially declared the 2026 fire season in effect on May 8 — a full month ahead of the typical mid-June start — citing warm temperatures, low humidity, and persistent winds that pushed fire danger to dangerous levels well before summer.
Jefferson County has already experienced its first wildfire evacuation warnings of the season, with the Jordan Fire near Lake Billy Chinook triggering Level 2 evacuation notices on June 1. All orders were lifted after aerial and ground crews contained the blaze, but the incident was a reminder that fire season is very much underway.
Current Restrictions on ODF-Protected Lands
Jefferson County falls within the Prineville Unit of the Oregon Department of Forestry, which has been under a Regulated Use Closure since May 18. The closure is in effect until further notice. Here’s what’s restricted:
- Campfires, cooking fires, charcoal and warming fires are prohibited (except in designated areas)
- Portable propane camp stoves are permitted in clear areas free of flammable vegetation, with a shovel and a gallon of water or 2.5-pound fire extinguisher on hand
- Chainsaw use is prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.; outside those hours, safety equipment must be on hand and a one-hour fire watch is required after use
- Cutting, grinding, or welding metal is prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- Motorized vehicles including ATVs and motorcycles are prohibited on unimproved roads
- Fireworks are prohibited
- Smoking while traveling is only permitted inside enclosed vehicles on improved roads
How to Stay Informed
Fire conditions can change rapidly. Residents are encouraged to use the following resources:
- Central Oregon Fire Information — centraloregonfire.org — tracks current fire restrictions and air quality
- Watch Duty — free wildfire tracking app with real-time evacuation zone alerts for Jefferson County
- Jefferson County Emergency Alert — sign up at jeffco.net to receive emergency notifications
- ODF Prineville Unit — (541) 447-5658
Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo: Plan Ahead
With the Jefferson County Fair scheduled for July 21–25 and summer recreation season in full swing at Lake Billy Chinook and the surrounding public lands, the risk of accidental human-caused wildfires is elevated. ODF fire officials have urged anyone recreating on or near public lands to check current restrictions before heading out and to pack out all fire-starting materials if campfires are prohibited.
Violations of fire restrictions on ODF-protected lands can result in significant fines. But more importantly, a single spark in dry brush can grow into a fire that threatens homes, wildlife, and the landscapes that make Jefferson County special. Please be careful out there.