The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Wildland Fire Service have implemented Stage 1 fire restrictions across all BLM-administered lands in Oregon and Washington, effective May 14, 2026. The early-season restrictions are a direct response to drought conditions, record-low snowpack, and warnings from fire managers that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness in the Pacific Northwest.

What Is Prohibited

Under the new restrictions, the following activities are prohibited on all BLM lands in Oregon and Washington:

  • Use of fireworks of any kind
  • Exploding targets or metallic targets
  • Steel component ammunition, including core or jacket
  • Tracer or incendiary devices
  • Sky lanterns

Campfires may also be restricted in specific areas — visitors are urged to check current conditions at www.blm.gov/orwafire before heading out.

Why Now

"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."

Washington declared a statewide drought on April 8, and snowpack across the state has melted out roughly a month earlier than normal. Oregon is experiencing similar conditions, with record-low snowpack and below-normal precipitation forecasted to persist through June by the Climate Prediction Center.

Penalties for Violations

Violations of fire restrictions on federal lands carry serious consequences. Those found in violation may face fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months. Additionally, individuals responsible for starting wildfires on federal lands can be held financially liable for the full cost of fire suppression — which can run into millions of dollars for large fires.

Stay Informed

Conditions may escalate quickly. Visitors to BLM lands in Oregon and Washington should check current fire restrictions before every trip. Information on seasonal fire restrictions and closures is available at www.blm.gov/orwafire. Many county and state lands have implemented or are considering similar restrictions — check with your local Oregon Department of Forestry or Washington DNR office for the latest on state and private lands.