The Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Wildland Fire Service moved quickly this spring, imposing enhanced fire restrictions on all BLM-administered lands throughout Oregon and Washington effective May 14 — weeks ahead of the typical summer restriction season. Officials say the early action reflects mounting concern about what could become one of the most dangerous fire years on record for the Pacific Northwest.

What the Restrictions Cover

Under the new restrictions, the following are now prohibited on all BLM-managed lands in Oregon and Washington:

  • Fireworks of any kind
  • Exploding targets or metallic targets
  • Steel component ammunition (core or jacket)
  • Tracer or incendiary devices
  • Sky lanterns

Violations can result in fines up to $100,000 and up to 12 months imprisonment. Individuals found responsible for starting a wildland fire on federal land may also be billed for the full cost of suppression.

Officials Sound the Alarm

"We are increasingly concerned that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness in the Pacific Northwest," said Jeff Fedrizzi, U.S. Wildland Fire Service Assistant Chief of Operations for the Pacific Northwest. "Every visitor must understand that even one small spark can lead to a costly and destructive fire in these high-impact conditions."

A Season Already Off to a Fast Start

The restrictions come as national fire statistics trend sharply above historical averages. As of May 22, 2026, more than 29,000 fires have burned over 2.3 million acres across the United States — roughly double the acreage burned during the same period in 2025 and well above the 10-year average of 1.17 million acres year-to-date. Predictive services outlooks from the National Interagency Fire Center indicate above-normal temperatures are expected from May through August across the Pacific Northwest, with the extreme 2015 fire season trajectory still considered a possible analog.

What Recreationists Should Know

With Memorial Day weekend drawing millions of visitors to public lands, land managers are urging outdoor enthusiasts to check current fire restrictions before leaving home. Even where campfires remain technically permitted, officials encourage visitors to ask themselves whether a fire is truly necessary. Restrictions on National Forest lands vary by district and may be more stringent than BLM-wide rules.

For current Oregon and Washington fire restrictions, visit the BLM Oregon/Washington Fire Management page or contact your local ranger district.