MARION COUNTY, OR. – The Marion County Fire Defense Board has issued an outdoor burn ban effective immediately, May 8, 2019, in all areas of Marion County.

The Marion County Fire Defense Board has issued a county-wide burn ban effective, Wednesday, May 8, 2019 through Sunday, May 12, 2019, due to forecasted high temperatures, limited rainfall and ongoing dry conditions.

The burn ban includes yard debris, and agricultural burning and permits issued for open burning until further notice. Check with your local Fire Department/District for more information. For the most current information, please call the Burn Information Line at (877) 982-0011.

Restrictions include:

• Backyard burning (yard debris, etc.)
• Agricultural burning, regulated through Department of Agriculture, contact your local fire agency for special situations.
• Land clearing or slash burning.

BBQ grills, and recreational fires are allowed with precautions.

Federal agencies have independent jurisdiction and authority to regulate recreational fires on their lands so this ban does not apply to the US Forest Service and BLM regulated lands. Adhering to these precautions is still wise even though not enforceable.

Individuals found to be in violation of these requirements during the burn ban may be held liable for the cost of putting out a fire and for any property damage resulting from an illegal fire. Those living in rural areas are asked to maintain their defensible space by monitoring growth surrounding homes and structures, and to maintain adequate access for firefighting equipment,

* Know fire risks and obey fire restrictions, such as campfire bans. * Avoid parking or driving on dry grass as hot vehicles can start a wildfire. * Vehicles are required to have a shovel and fire extinguisher or at least a gallon of water in many areas. * Do not use candles, fireworks, tiki torches, or other open flames in wildland areas. * Remember that sky lanterns are illegal in Oregon airspace. * Dispose of smoking material in deep, sturdy ashtrays. * Make sure butts and ashes are extinguished with water. * Never discard butts on the ground or in vegetation.

For more wildfire prevention information and restrictions, we encourage you to visit Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org and the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov.