Central Oregon public lands are now under Stage 1 fire restrictions — with key areas moving into Regulated Use Closure — as fire managers respond to critically dry conditions heading into the Memorial Day holiday weekend. The restrictions, which ban most open burning and require heightened precautions, came into effect on May 18, 2026.

What the Restrictions Cover

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Prineville Unit, Fossil Sub-Unit, and Sisters Sub-Unit entered Regulated Use Closure at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, May 18. Simultaneously, Stage 1 fire restrictions took effect across Central Oregon public lands, including the Deschutes National Forest and associated BLM-managed lands.

Under Stage 1 restrictions and Regulated Use Closure, the following activities are prohibited on affected lands:

  • Campfires outside of designated developed campgrounds with metal fire rings
  • Charcoal fires and charcoal briquette use in dispersed settings
  • Use of fireworks, including sparklers
  • Smoking while traveling — smokers must stop in a cleared area of at least three feet in diameter
  • Operating equipment with an unserviceable spark arrester
  • Welding or grinding operations that produce sparks outside of cleared areas

Propane and gas stoves with shut-off valves remain allowed under current Stage 1 restrictions.

Why Now?

Fuel moisture levels across Central Oregon are critically low following a warm and dry spring. The area experienced below-average snowpack during the winter and has seen above-normal temperatures since April. A prescribed burn on Pine Mountain east of Bend escaped containment on May 7, growing to nearly 3,000 acres before being brought under control — a stark reminder of how quickly fire can spread in current conditions.

The National Weather Service reports that minimum relative humidity values across the region are frequently dropping below 20 percent during afternoon hours, combined with gusty winds. Fire managers note these are conditions typically not seen until July or August.

Memorial Day Weekend: A High-Risk Holiday

Memorial Day weekend is historically one of the top periods for human-caused ignitions in Oregon. According to fire safety advocates, human activities such as recreational campfires, improper disposal of smoking materials, and debris burning account for approximately 20 percent of all wildfires in Oregon. With 2026's season already starting earlier than normal due to historic heat and drought, the risk this holiday weekend is elevated above average.

The ODF, USFS, and BLM urge all visitors to Central Oregon public lands to check the current fire restrictions before their trip. Violating fire restrictions can result in civil fines and criminal penalties. For current restriction information, visit InciWeb.wildfire.gov or contact the Deschutes National Forest at (541) 383-5300.