Deschutes County imposes fire restrictions on unprotected lands during summer heat

During the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners meeting on May 21, 2025, officials discussed critical fire safety regulations aimed at protecting the community during the upcoming summer months. With the region facing heightened fire risks, the board emphasized the importance of implementing strict fire restrictions, particularly in unprotected lands.

Key highlights from the meeting included a ban on open fires, which encompasses campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires, and warming fires, except in designated areas. Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels remain permitted. Additionally, chainsaw use will be restricted between 1 PM and 8 PM, and individuals using cutting and grinding tools during these hours must carry firefighting equipment, such as shovels, fire extinguishers, and water.

The discussion also touched on the definition of unprotected lands within Deschutes County, which lack fire protection districts. These areas, primarily located in the northern and eastern parts of the county, will be subject to the new restrictions. The board reiterated that these measures are best practices to mitigate fire risks during hot and dry conditions.

Commissioner Chang highlighted ongoing community concerns regarding fireworks, noting that previous analyses indicated that significant fire ignitions from fireworks primarily occurred within city limits, particularly in Bend. While there are calls to ban fireworks in unincorporated areas, the current data does not support such a measure. However, the board remains open to revisiting this issue if future data indicates a need for stricter regulations.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the resolution outlining these fire safety measures, reinforcing the county's commitment to protecting its residents and natural resources during the fire season. As summer approaches, these regulations serve as a reminder for residents to prioritize safety and adhere to fire prevention practices.