The Bureau of Land Management has activated statewide fire restrictions across all 16 million acres of BLM-administered lands in Oregon and Washington, effective as of late May 2026. Additional district-level orders have further tightened restrictions in high-risk areas, including the Roseburg District (effective May 30) and the Coos Bay District (effective June 3).
What the Restrictions Cover
The statewide fire restrictions prohibit or limit a range of activities on BLM public lands to reduce the risk of human-caused ignitions:
- Open campfires are prohibited unless within a designated fire ring at an established campsite
- Charcoal grills and wood fires outside of developed recreation areas are banned
- Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or within a cleared area of at least three feet in diameter
- Use of exploding targets and tracer ammunition is prohibited
- Operating any internal combustion engine-powered equipment without a spark arrester is banned in fire-prone areas
District-specific orders in Roseburg and Coos Bay may include additional restrictions beyond the statewide baseline. Visitors are urged to check the Oregon/Washington BLM Fire Closures and Restrictions page before entering public lands.
Why Restrictions Are in Place
The BLM says early fire season conditions across Oregon and Washington โ including dried-out low-elevation fuels, below-normal snowpack, and warming temperatures โ have created conditions that make human-caused ignitions especially dangerous. The agency notes that the majority of wildfires on BLM lands are human-caused and preventable.
"Taking simple precautions โ such as avoiding parking on dry vegetation, checking equipment and trailer chains to prevent dragging, following local fire restrictions, and ensuring campfires are completely out before leaving โ can make an enormous difference," BLM officials said in a statement.
Statewide Restrictions Apply to Popular Recreation Areas
The restrictions cover popular recreation destinations, including the Fishermen's Bend, Canyon Creek, and Elkhorn Valley recreational facilities in the Willamette Valley and Cascades foothills. Visitors planning camping or hiking trips should review current restrictions before departing.
Penalties
Violations of BLM fire restrictions can result in fines of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months under federal law. Individuals who cause wildfires through negligence may also be held liable for suppression costs.
For current restriction details, visit blm.gov or contact your local BLM district office.