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Know Before You Go: Fire Safety Rules for Public Lands

Know Before You Go: Fire Safety Rules for Public Lands
Oregon Department of Forestry

Public Use Restrictions During Fire Season

Fire danger levels change throughout the season — always check the current rating before heading out, and follow the restrictions for that day’s level.

Source: Oregon Department of Forestry, transcribed from the official public use restrictions chart

Low Moderate High Extreme
Activity Low Moderate High Extreme
Burning of debrisWhether in burn piles or burn barrels Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime
Use of tracer ammunition & exploding targets Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime
Use of fireworks on ODF-protected forestland Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime
Smoking in areas of dry vegetationExcept in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on water, and other designated areas free of vegetation Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime Not allowed anytime
Campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires & warming firesA shovel and water source is required. Liquified or bottle-fueled camp stoves or fire pits are allowed at all times in cleared areas* Allowed with landowner’s permission Allowed only at designated locations Allowed only at designated locations Allowed only at designated locations
Motor vehiclesIncluding motorcycles & all-terrain — only allowed on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except for the culture/harvest of agricultural crops Not restricted Restricted at all times Restricted at all times Restricted at all times
Use of electric fence controllersShall be listed by a nationally recognized testing lab or certified by the DCBS, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions Required at all times Required at all times Required at all times Required at all times

*Check with local fire authorities, as some restrictions may be more conservative than the statewide chart depending on local conditions.

In an Emergency

If you see a fire in Southern Oregon, call 911 immediately. Do not try to put it out yourself. Always follow current local fire restrictions and check today’s fire danger rating before heading out.