By Todd Hesse, Tillamook County Fire Defense Board Chief
The Tillamook County Fire Defense Board in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Forestry will enter into a county-wide burn ban on outdoor burning on July 15, 2025, at 12:01 am. This means no outdoor open debris pile burning or burn barrels.
The ban does not include permitted campfires and campfires in designated sites.
It is also a good reminder that fire can be a hazard at any time of year if steps are not taken to use fire safely. Whenever you use fire, whether for debris burning or enjoying a campfire, use these steps to prevent your fire from turning into the next wildfire.
- Never leave your fire unattended.
- When burning debris, always have a hose and shovel at the fire to prevent the fire from spreading.
- Check with your local fire protection agency prior to burning. (Most Rural Fire Protection Districts require a burn permit year-round.)
- If camping, ensure your campfire is in a designated area.
- Always make sure your campfire is out cold before leaving.
- On the beach, keep your campfire far from beach grass and driftwood piles.
Forest users may obtain information about state forest lands and industrial fire restrictions in our area and public fire restrictions by calling the Tillamook District 503-842-2545.
Campfires on the beach must be at least 50 feet away from vegetation, and any driftwood concentrations.
Please see the following 2025 changes for burn violations:
Any violations of ORS 477.515 will have a citation written. ORS 477.515 covers Burning without a Permit, Failure to comply with Burn Permit Conditions or Regulations, and Burning Prohibited Materials. Previously, the 1st offense was a written warning (except for the Prohibited Materials). The first violation now is a Class D Violation with a $115 presumptive fine.
All violations will have a 60-month (5 year) limitation, previously 36-months. 2nd infraction during this period will result in a Class C violation with a $165 presumptive fine. Subsequent violations will be treated as a Class A violation with a presumptive fine of $440.
All violations will be tracked in a Statewide Database. Previously, it was tracked by District.
And a friendly reminder: Use of Exploding Targets, Tracer Ammo, or Sky Lanterns are prohibited and will be treated as a Class A Violation. That is a $440 presumptive fine with the 1st offense.
For further information or questions, please contact your local fire district or the Oregon Department of Forestry.