Bend-area debris burning closed due to wind, forecast

Open debris burning outside of the Bend city limits is now closed through Saturday due to current and forecast weather conditions. Winds are expected to increase, and fuels are still very dry, fire officials said Friday.

Open debris burning is never allowed within the city limits of Bend. Check with your local fire department or agency on any local restrictions or permit requirements.

Escaped fires (campfires and debris burning) are one of Oregon’s leading causes of human-caused wildfires. In 2016, the Bend Fire Department responded to 24 escaped fires. Failure to comply with the burning regulations can result in a citation and fine.

When burning is allowed, all agricultural and commercial burning need a burn permit in areas covered by Bend Fire Department and Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2. This includes field burning, large piles (larger than 6ft in diameter and 4ft in height) and ditch burning. Permits are needed for both large commercial fires and home hobby farms.

Call the Bend Fire Department at 541-322-6309 to find out if a permit is needed or to answer any questions you have, or visit their website www.bendoregon.gov/burninginfo for more information about safe burning practices or to download a copy of the current burning regulations .

You can always call the Burn Line, 541-322-6335, to learn the current status of burning.