Rogue Valley Fire Prevention

Open Burning

Open burning involves the ignition of woody debris in burn piles or burn barrels.  It is extremely important for individuals to follow required guidelines and obey burning restrictions concerning open burning, as the burn project is the sole responsibility of the individual involved in the burning; an escaped burn could be billed to the responsible party.

Burning is NEVER allowed during fire season (except burn barrels--with an ODF-issued permit-- until June 30).  Call the county burn line, 476-9663, to find out whether burning is allowed on a particular day.

Some fire districts require a permit, so be sure to find out whether a permit is required in your area (and how to get one, if necessary).  Provided below is a link to various fire districts in our area:

Fire District Links

Here are some tips for safe open burning:

(Start your pile with small debris near bottom-- 1/4" or less)

 

  • Keep your burn pile small (you can add to it as it burns)
  • Avoid piling beneath utility lines or tree branches
  • Make piles in open areas, free of burnable vegetation
  • Pile small branches at bottom; pile large branches on top
  • ONLY burn vegetation cuttings, needles, and leaves
  • NEVER burn plastic, tires, garbage, animal waste, etc.
  • Cover your pile to keep it dry before burn date
  • Dig/scrape a defensive line around your burn pile
  • Burn only during daylight hours
  • Have a hose or water source (bucket of water) at the site
  • Keep a shovel and other fire-fighting tools at the site
  • Watch the fire at all times; completely extinguish by night
  • Don't allow children to play near burn site
  • Call 9-1-1 immediately if the fire gets out of control
  • Check site the following day to ensure it is totally out

(Have line digging tools and water at your burn site.)

illustrations: Ian Keusink

For more information on open burning tips, visit the link below: