Burn ban in effect throughout Multnomah County

(JULY 7, 2025) The Multnomah County Fire Defense Board announced last week an immediate burn ban for all areas of Multnomah County. This action is based on continued hot, dry weather conditions and increased fire danger across the region. The ban is in effect until further notice. 

The burn ban includes:

• Backyard burning

• Recreational campfires and fire pits

• Agricultural burning, including land clearing and stump or debris burning

Outdoor cooking is still allowed if using grills, smokers, and other cooking appliances fueled by charcoal, wood chips, pellets, propane, or natural gas. When using charcoal briquettes, dispose of ashes only in covered metal containers away from combustibles. Keep ashes soaked in water for several days before final disposal.

Some additional safety reminders include:

• Maintain at least 10 feet between any outdoor cooking and combustible materials (e.g., siding, fences, shrubs)

• Smokers should fully extinguish cigarettes before discarding them

• Rural property owners are urged to maintain wildfire defensible space around structures, reduce dry vegetation, and ensure emergency vehicle access

The ban will remain in effect throughout the summer until the autumn weather allows a return to permitted open burning.