Fire season has arrived in Central Oregon, and residents across Jefferson County need to understand what current restrictions mean for their daily activities on and off their property.

The Oregon Department of Forestry officially declared the 2026 fire season in effect starting May 8. That declaration alone brings baseline fire safety requirements for anyone doing industrial, agricultural, or recreational activities in or near forestland.

Regulated Use Closure in Effect

On May 18 at 12:01 a.m., ODF escalated restrictions by placing the Prineville Unit, Fossil Sub-Unit, and Sisters Sub-Unit under a Regulated Use Closure — a significant step that affects a broad swath of Central Oregon including lands in and around Jefferson County.

Under a Regulated Use Closure, the following activities are generally prohibited or restricted on ODF-protected lands:

  • Campfires — generally prohibited except in developed campgrounds with metal fire rings, and only when specifically permitted
  • Smoking — restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings, or cleared areas free of flammable material
  • Use of fireworks — prohibited
  • Operating equipment with internal combustion engines during high-risk hours — restrictions apply
  • Welding and grinding — generally restricted in the field

These restrictions are separate from any closures that may apply to U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management lands, which operate under their own sets of rules.

Why This Matters in Jefferson County

Jefferson County sits at the transition zone between the high desert and the forested slopes of the Cascades — a geography that makes it especially vulnerable during dry, windy conditions. Open burning of yard debris on private lands is also affected during fire season. Residents should check with ODF or visit the Before You Burn website (beforeyouburn.com) before igniting any outdoor fire on their property.

What You Should Do

  • Check current restrictions at centraloregonfire.org before any outdoor activity
  • Never leave campfires or burn piles unattended
  • Keep a shovel and water nearby when doing any outdoor burning (when permitted)
  • Report fires immediately by calling 911
  • Make sure your home has defensible space cleared of dry vegetation

The 2026 fire season is expected to remain in effect until the State Forester issues a termination declaration, typically sometime in the fall. As summer heats up, additional restrictions may be added. Residents are urged to check centraloregonfire.org regularly for the latest status.