Statewide fire restrictions are now in effect across all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington, officials announced this week, as warming temperatures and drying fuels signal the onset of fire season in the Pacific Northwest.

What Is Restricted

The blanket statewide restrictions prohibit a range of activities that carry elevated ignition risk. Specifically prohibited across all BLM lands in Oregon and Washington:

  • Use of fireworks, exploding targets, and metallic or steel-core ammunition
  • Tracer and incendiary devices of any kind
  • Sky lanterns

Additional local restrictions — which may govern campfire use, power tool operation, and required safety equipment — vary by district and jurisdiction. Visitors are urged to research restrictions specific to their destination before heading out.

District-Level Orders

Beyond the statewide baseline, individual BLM districts have issued their own fire prevention orders. The Roseburg District order took effect at 12:01 a.m. PDT on May 30, 2026, while the Coos Bay District followed with its own order effective June 3, 2026. Both orders remain in effect on BLM-administered lands within their respective district boundaries.

"Every visitor to public lands can take additional precautions to lower the risk of starting a fire," said Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director. "Just one spark can start a wildfire."

Vehicle and Equipment Safety

Officials are paying particular attention to vehicle-caused ignitions this season. As roadside brush dries, vehicles become a primary ignition source. Drivers are urged to:

  • Avoid parking or idling on tall, dry grass — exhaust systems and catalytic converters can ignite dry vegetation without a visible spark
  • Stick to established roads, gravel turnouts, or cleared parking areas
  • Ensure tow chains are properly secured and not dragging on pavement — loose metal striking the highway generates sparks continuously
  • Equip all off-highway vehicles, chainsaws, and portable generators with properly functioning spark arrestors

"Preventing human-caused fires is one of the best ways we can all work together to keep our firefighters and our communities safe," said Josh O'Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.

Where to Check Restrictions

Visitors can look up current fire restrictions and closures by location at the BLM Oregon/Washington Fire Closures and Restrictions page at blm.gov or by contacting their local BLM district office. Restrictions can change rapidly as conditions evolve, so check before every outing.