Outdoor burning rules vary across Central Oregon after dry, mild winter

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Central Oregon fire districts are moving up the end of outdoor debris burning to April 30, citing dry conditions, gusty winds and faster-drying fuels that are raising wildfire concerns across the region.

Bend Fire & Rescue says debris burning in the rural areas surrounding Bend will be allowed only through April 30. Bend city limits already prohibit debris burning year-round.

"This year, being as dry as it is, as windy as it has been, even with the recent rain, it's definitely drier than normal," Bend Fire's Dan Derlacki said. "So we're going to shut down a month early on April 30th. We still got a few days left for people to burn. But because of that dry weather, the volatility of the fuels right now, we've already had multiple escape burns that have threatened homes."

Derlacki said residents who still burn before the deadline should check local rules daily, keep water and tools ready, and make sure piles are clear of buildings and vegetation. He said Bend Fire shuts down burning for the day when winds are forecast above 20 mph.

Several other districts are following the same April 30 closure, including Alfalfa Fire District, Bend/Deschutes Rural Fire District No. 2, Black Butte Ranch, La Pine, Lake Chinook, Redmond Fire & Rescue, Sisters-Camp Sherman, Cloverdale and Crooked River Ranch. Jefferson County Fire & EMS remains open for now and says it typically closes June 1, but may shut down sooner depending on conditions.

Crook County Fire & Rescue is taking a different approach for now.

"We have received a lot of questions about when outdoor burning will close for fire season in Crook County," Fire Chief Matt Smith said. "We are aware of other counties and agencies in Central Oregon closing on April 30th. At this time, Crook County Fire & Rescue is NOT planning on closing burning on April 30th. We are actively monitoring the weather and the impact the mild winter has had on fuels in our area."

Smith said burn barrels and debris piles are allowed from 9 a.m. until sunset under Crook County burn regulations, and residents should check the burn line or the district website before lighting up.

The early closures come after a dry winter and an unusually windy spring that officials say have left fuels more volatile than normal. Fire officials say conditions can vary sharply across Central Oregon, making it important for residents to check with their local agency before burning.

For residents still burning, fire officials say the message is simple: follow local rules, keep water and tools nearby, and make sure every burn is completely out before leaving it unattended.