The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Wildland Fire Service announced this week that enhanced fire restrictions will go into effect on all BLM-administered lands throughout Oregon and Washington beginning Thursday, May 14, 2026. The restrictions are aimed at reducing the risk of human-caused ignitions as warmer, drier conditions take hold across the Pacific Northwest.

What Is Prohibited

Starting May 14, the following are prohibited on all BLM-managed public lands in Oregon and Washington:

  • Fireworks of any kind
  • Exploding targets or metallic targets
  • Steel component ammunition (core or jacket)
  • Tracer or incendiary devices
  • Sky lanterns

The restrictions apply to all BLM-administered lands throughout both states. Violations may result in fines of up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months. In addition, individuals found responsible for starting a wildland fire on federal lands can be billed for the full cost of fire suppression.

Agencies Warn of Exceptional Fire Risk in 2026

Officials described the restrictions as an urgent and necessary response to rapidly worsening fire conditions across the region. Jeff Fedrizzi, Assistant Chief of Operations for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service in the Pacific Northwest, issued a stark warning.

"We are increasingly concerned that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness in the Pacific Northwest," Fedrizzi said. "Every visitor must understand that even one small spark can lead to a costly and destructive fire in these high-impact conditions."

The announcement comes just days after the Pine Mountain Prescribed Burn on the Deschutes National Forest escaped its boundaries and was declared a wildfire — growing to nearly 2,600 acres before being fully contained.

Human-Caused Fires Remain a Leading Threat

According to BLM data, approximately 85% of wildfires in the United States each year are caused by human activity and are preventable. Common ignition sources include unattended campfires, target shooting with incendiary or steel-core ammunition, fireworks, and equipment sparks.

"These fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires," the agency stated. "We encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as warmer, drier weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest."

How to Stay Informed

Visitors to BLM lands in Oregon and Washington should check current restrictions and closures before heading out. For more information, visit the BLM Oregon/Washington Fire Management page or contact your local BLM field office. Fire restrictions can change rapidly depending on conditions, so always check before you go.