Fall open debris burning begins October 1 across Harney County; permits required
By Mindy McKerrall on Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
HARNEY COUNTY-Local fire authorities in Harney County have announced that outdoor burn bans will officially lift starting Thursday, October 1, 2026, opening the fall season for yard debris burning in both Burns and Hines.
Officials with the Burns Fire Department and the Hines Fire Department released official safety guidelines this week, emphasizing that while open burning is resuming, strict local regulations and mandatory burn permits remain in full effect to protect the community.
Residents planning to clear yard waste must obtain an official burn permit prior to lighting any fires.
- City of Hines: Residents can secure a required burn permit by contacting Hines City Hall at 541-573-2251.
- City of Burns: Residents can contact the Burns Fire Department at 541-573-2320 or visit the fire station at 242 S. Broadway for permit details and current local restrictions.
Both fire departments stress that burn permits do not grant unrestricted burning and urge residents to adhere strictly to safety requirements:
- Permissible Hours: Outdoor burning is strictly restricted to daylight hours between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
- Approved Materials: Only clean, dry yard debris may be burned. Burning offensive or hazardous materials—including grass clippings, leaves, garbage, plastics, dead animals, or other odor-producing items—is strictly prohibited.
- Weather & Environmental Checks: Property owners must verify that local wind speeds, atmospheric inversion, and air quality conditions are suitable before starting a fire. Conditions can change rapidly due to weather or elevated fire danger.
- Safety Equipment On-Site: An adult must monitor the fire at all times. Adequate firefighting tools—including a water source, rake, and shovel—must be kept immediately adjacent to the burn area.
Fire officials remind the public that if a fire begins to escape control, residents should dial 911 immediately. Residents are encouraged to contact their respective local fire agency to ensure full compliance before beginning any yard cleanup.
