Union County Ends Regulated Use Fire Season for 2020

The Union County Regulated Use Fire Season will cease at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2020.  The Union County Board of Commissioners had previously extended the annual fire season through October 15 at the recommendation of the Union County Fire Defense Board at an emergency session held on September 29.

As specified in County Ordinance 2018-01, the commissioners may extend the season based on current conditions and at the recommendation of the Union County Fire Defense Board, which consists of all Fire Chiefs within Union County. The ordinance may be read in its entirety at www.union-county.org/emergency-services.

Fire conditions have moderated throughout the county due to rainfall and cooler temperatures. This change in conditions has allowed the regulated fire season to come to an end, but citizens are urged to continue to be cautious when burning. Citizens should call the smoke management line at (541) 963-4040 to hear the recorded message for daily burn conditions. On days burning is allowed, fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person equipped with a shovel and water sufficient to suppress any accidental ignitions.  Burn barrels must be in good condition with a heavy metal screen placed on top of the barrel and not be placed within 25 feet of any structure.

Outside of regulated use fire season, burn permits are required for all open burning at all times outside city limits. Burn permits may be obtained through the smoke management line at (541) 963-4040. Burn barrels, improved fire pits, and fire appliances are allowed without a permit, but must meet criteria listed in the Ordinance.

Forest visitors are encouraged to stay up to date on the latest orders and regulations in Northeast Oregon by visiting the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center website at www.bmidc.org/restrictions/shtml.

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October 14, 2020