Though Fall Is Here, Fire Season Is Not Over
Though fall has arrived, fire season is not over. ODF warns fuels remain dry, east winds elevate risk, and most of Oregon is still at moderate to high fire danger. Debris burning is prohibited until season-ending rains arrive.
SALEM, Ore. – September 29, 2025 – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is reminding residents that while cooler weather and occasional rain may signal fall, fire season is still very much active across the state. Fire regulations remain in effect until a season-ending rain event occurs.
“With the temperature changes, it’s easy to think that fires are lessening or that fire season is over. However, we are still seeing new fire starts daily throughout the state and fire regulations remain in place,” said Michael Curran, ODF Fire Protection Division Chief.
So far this year, ODF has responded to 1,091 fires on protected lands — 671 of them human-caused. Dry fuels, paired with common fall east winds, continue to create conditions where wildfires can ignite and spread.
Key Prevention Steps
- Debris burning: Still the top cause of human-caused fires and prohibited statewide during fire season. Cover piles now and wait until the season officially ends before burning.
- Campfires and warming fires: Always check local restrictions. If permitted, never leave them unattended and fully extinguish them until cold to the touch.
- Vehicles: Do not park over dry grass. Regularly service vehicles and ATVs. More than 100 fires this year have started from vehicles. Secure tow chains to avoid sparks.
Current Conditions
While some ODF districts have lowered fire danger ratings, most of Oregon remains in moderate to high fire danger. Regulations remain in place to prevent late-season fires until consistent, soaking rains arrive.
For updated fire restrictions, visit Oregon.gov/odf. For wildfire prevention resources, go to KeepOregonGreen.org.
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