The Linn County Fire Defense Board—representing the fire agencies of Albany Fire Department, Lebanon Fire District, Sweet Home Fire District, Scio Fire District, Tangent Fire District, Brownsville Rural Fire District, Halsey Fire, and Harrisburg Fire & Rescue—is pleased to announce the opening of burn season on Saturday, October 19th. We thank the public for their patience during the delay, which was necessary to ensure safety amid recent weather conditions. As burn season begins, it’s important for residents to stay informed and follow regulations to maintain a safe and responsible burning environment.
General Guidelines for Open Burning
Residents are reminded to adhere to Division 264 Rules for Open Burning. Please ensure the following requirements are met:
- Before burning, call the Linn County Burn Line at 541-451-1904 or review the Willamette Valley Open Burning Announcement (https://smkmgt.com/burn.php) to confirm daily restrictions.
- Never leave a fire unattended. Escaped fires can lead to dangerous wildfires in Oregon.
- Following Division 264 Rules for Open Burning does not exempt you from responsibility for any damages.
Fire Safety Reminders
To burn efficiently and minimize smoke pollution, follow these key tips:
- Burn dry firewood and yard debris; avoid wet materials.
- Stack firewood and yard waste loosely to ensure good air circulation.
- Re-stack or feed the fire regularly to prevent smoldering.
- Avoid using lighter fluid or other accelerants.
- Maintain safe distances from buildings, as required by city or county codes.
Please stay updated on any burn bans that may be enforced by your local fire agency.
Materials Illegal to Burn
It is important to remember that burning certain materials in Oregon is illegal. The following items cannot be burned:
- Asbestos
- Automotive parts
- Plastics and rubber products
- Waste oil and petroleum products
- Wet garbage and food waste
- Materials that create dense smoke or noxious odors
Alternatives to Burning
We encourage residents to consider alternatives to open burning to help keep our air clean:
- Recycle paper and other products when possible.
- Compost yard debris and kitchen scraps.
- Dispose of waste at an approved landfill or hazardous waste collection site.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to fire safety as burn season opens. For more information on the regulations and safe practices, contact your local fire agency or call the Linn County Burn Line at 541-451-1904.
