LINCOLN COUNTY ISSUES ANNUAL DEBRIS BURN BAN AHEAD OF 2026 FIRE SEASON

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. — June 9, 2026 — The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, under Fire Chief Tom Jackson, announced Monday that an annual debris burn ban will go into effect as Oregon prepares for the start of fire season, citing increasingly dry conditions across the region.

The Oregon Department of Forestry has declared that the 2026 fire season will begin at 12:01 a.m. on June 15 and continue through Oct. 15. In coordination with that declaration, Lincoln County agencies will implement a countywide ban on yard debris burning for the duration of the season.

Officials said the standardized seasonal dates are intended to help residents plan ahead, while noting that individual fire districts may adjust restrictions based on localized weather patterns and changing fire risk conditions.

Restrictions and allowances

The debris burn ban applies specifically to outdoor yard debris burning. Officials emphasized that several common heat sources are not included in the restriction unless elevated fire danger conditions are present or forecast.

Activities still allowed under normal conditions include:

• Recreational campfires
• Propane or natural gas patio fireplaces
• Charcoal barbecue grills

Residents are advised, however, that even permitted activities may be restricted during periods of heightened fire weather conditions.

Fire danger and enforcement

Fire officials stressed that wildfire risk continues to rise across Oregon, with dry vegetation and seasonal wind patterns contributing to rapidly changing conditions.

“Escaped or unattended fires can lead to significant property damage and public safety impacts,” officials noted, referencing Oregon law ORS 476.920, which allows for billing responsible parties for fire suppression costs.

Local fire agency contacts

Residents seeking district-specific guidance are encouraged to contact their local fire protection agency:

• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue: 541-996-2233
• Depoe Bay Fire District: 541-764-2202
• East Lincoln County Fire & Rescue: 541-270-1468
• City of Newport Fire Dept./Newport RFPD: 541-265-9461
• Seal Rock Fire District: 541-563-4441
• Central Coast Fire & Rescue: 541-563-3121
• Toledo Fire Department: 541-336-3311
• Siletz Fire District: 541-444-2043
• Yachats Fire District: 541-547-3266
• Oregon Department of Forestry: 503-945-7200

Officials reiterated that residents should check with local fire agencies before conducting any outdoor burning activities, as restrictions may vary by district and evolve throughout the fire season.