The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Wildland Fire Service have imposed fire restrictions on all BLM-administered lands throughout Oregon and Washington, effective May 14, 2026. The move comes weeks earlier than typical in many areas and reflects dry fuel conditions driven by a historically low snowpack season and above-average spring temperatures.

The restrictions apply broadly to millions of acres of BLM-managed public lands across both states, encompassing high desert, sagebrush steppe, and mixed forest landscapes that are now seeing fine fuel moisture levels well below seasonal norms.

Central Oregon Enters Stage 1

Central Oregon public lands — including the Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, and associated BLM districts — entered Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions effective May 13, 2026, one day ahead of the broader BLM order.

Under Stage 1 restrictions, the following activities are prohibited:

  • Campfires, including wood fires and charcoal briquette fires
  • Portable propane campfires and wood pellet burning devices
  • Any other type of open flame in non-developed areas
  • Smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or at a developed recreation site
  • Operating or using any device that could produce a spark, flame, or fire in or near dry grass

Campfires within designated fire rings at developed campgrounds may still be permitted in some locations — visitors should check with the specific managing unit before their trip.

Why Now?

Fire management officials cite a convergence of factors for the early restrictions. Winter snowpack across the Oregon Cascades and Blue Mountains came in well below average, leading to an earlier-than-normal snowmelt. Grass and shrub fuels across Central and Eastern Oregon have cured rapidly under warm, dry spring conditions, creating highly flammable surface fuels that can carry fire with ease.

The Deschutes National Forest, one of the most visited national forests in the Pacific Northwest, coordinates its restriction decisions with Oregon Department of Forestry smoke management specialists to balance fire prevention with public access. Officials note that most wildfires on public lands in Central Oregon are human-caused, and that fire restrictions are among the most effective tools available to prevent ignitions during high-risk periods.

Penalties for Violations

Violations of fire restrictions on federal lands can result in fines of up to $5,000 and imprisonment of up to six months. Individuals found responsible for starting a fire that causes suppression costs may also face civil liability for those costs.

Recreationists are strongly encouraged to check current restrictions at fs.usda.gov, blm.gov, or their local ranger district before visiting public lands. Conditions are subject to change rapidly and restrictions may be escalated to Stage 2 — which bans all open flame including gas stoves — if conditions worsen.