Gresham Fire Department implements summer burn ban

Effective immediately

The burn ban includes: 

• Backyard burning 
• Recreational campfires and fire pits 
• Agricultural burning and Burning with a permit, including agricultural wastes, field burning, and any previously permitted open burning such as land clearing, slash, stump, or debris burning. 

Ban in effect until fall

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

“This decision is rooted in our responsibility to protect the community and our natural resources,” said Fire Defense Board Chief Chris Barney. “Conditions continue to be dry, and human-caused fires remain one of our greatest risks. Limiting open burning is one of our most effective preventative measures.” 

Outdoor cooking using grills, smokers, and other cooking appliances fueled by charcoal, wood chips, pellets, propane, or natural gas are still allowed at this time with extreme caution. When using charcoal briquettes, dispose of ashes only in covered metal containers away from combustibles. Soak ashes in water for several days before final disposal. 

Additional safety reminders: 

• Maintain at least 10 feet between any outdoor cooking and combustible materials (e.g., structures, fences, shrubs). 
• Citizens that smoke must ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished before discarding them in a metal container away from combustibles. 
• Rural property owners are urged to maintain wildfire defensible space around structures, reduce dry vegetation, and ensure emergency vehicle access. 
• Every year fireworks ignite hundreds of fires in Oregon. Fires on roofs, in shrubs and bark dust and on decks are common and can cause damage to your home and injury to your family.