BLM Fire Restrictions Begin May 14
Restrictions will apply to BLM-administered lands across Oregon and Washington as officials warn of warmer, drier conditions heading into fire season.
PORTLAND, Ore. — Fire restrictions will take effect May 14 on all Bureau of Land Management-administered lands in Oregon and Washington as warmer and drier weather settles into the Pacific Northwest.
The BLM and U.S. Wildland Fire Service announced the restrictions Monday, saying the rules are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during increasingly dry conditions.
Beginning May 14, the following items and activities will be prohibited on BLM-administered lands in Oregon and Washington:
Fireworks
Exploding targets or metallic targets
Steel component ammunition, including core or jacket
Tracer or incendiary devices
Sky lanterns
“We are increasingly concerned that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness in the Pacific Northwest,” said Jeff Fedrizzi, U.S. Wildland Fire Service Assistant Chief of Operations for the Pacific Northwest.
“Every visitor must understand that even one small spark can lead to a costly and destructive fire in these high-impact conditions,” Fedrizzi said.
Officials said people who violate the restrictions may face fines of up to $100,000 and/or up to 12 months in jail. Anyone found responsible for starting a wildfire on federal land may also be billed for the cost of fire suppression.
The restrictions come as Oregon officials and fire agencies continue urging residents and visitors to prepare early for what could be an active fire season. Earlier this month, Gov. Tina Kotek and state wildfire leaders warned that severe drought conditions, dry fuels, and limited water supplies could contribute to elevated wildfire risk in parts of the state.
The BLM manages public lands throughout Oregon and Washington, including areas used for recreation, camping, hunting, target shooting, and travel. Visitors are encouraged to check current fire restrictions and closures before heading out.
More information on seasonal fire restrictions and closures is available through the BLM Oregon/Washington fire information page.
Cover image: BLM-administered public lands, including recreation areas such as Bolt Mountain Trail in Southern Oregon, will be under seasonal fire restrictions beginning May 14 as officials work to reduce human-caused wildfire risk. Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management.
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