Good news for Jefferson County homeowners with a pile of yard debris to clear: open residential burning is set to resume on Wednesday, October 1, following months of fire-season restrictions. The announcement comes as fire danger levels have dropped across Central Oregon with cooler temperatures and increased moisture returning to the region.
Permits Are Free — But Required
Residents must hold a valid burn permit to legally burn on residential property. The good news is that permits are free of charge and easy to obtain. Stop by the Jefferson County Fire & EMS station at 765 S. Fifth St. in Madras during normal business hours — Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — to pick one up before October 1.
Check the Burn Line Before You Light Up
Even with the season open, not every day will be a legal burn day. Burning can be suspended temporarily for poor air quality, high winds, Red Flag Warnings, or other fire-weather conditions. Before starting any fire, call the Jefferson County burn line at 541-475-1789 to confirm it is a burn day.
Safety Rules to Know
Jefferson County Fire & EMS urges residents to follow all regulations before lighting up:
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Keep a water source readily available near the fire at all times
- All fires must be fully extinguished by sunset
- Do not burn prohibited materials, including garbage, plastics, diapers, dead animals, auto bodies, or rubber
- Commercial and industrial waste must not be burned
FireFree Drop-Off Events in October
For those who prefer not to burn at home, Jefferson County Fire & EMS will be hosting two FireFree events in October. These events allow residents to drop off yard debris and other eligible materials at the Box Canyon Transfer Station, where fire department staff will handle the disposal. Call 541-475-7274 for dates, times, and a list of accepted materials.
Air Quality Considerations
Oregon Clean Air Agency (ORCAA) reminds residents that even during open burn season, days may be called "no burn" due to air quality conditions. Smoke from yard debris fires can aggravate respiratory conditions, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with asthma or COPD. When in doubt, take advantage of the FireFree drop-off program instead.
Jefferson County remained under open burn restrictions through the dry summer months. The lifting of those restrictions signals the transition into fall across the high desert — along with the welcome return of some seasonal rain and dropping fire danger. Residents with questions about burn permits or regulations can contact Jefferson County Fire & EMS at 541-475-1789.