Portland Fire Chief Announces Citywide Burn Ban, Effective Immediately

Portland Fire and Rescue officials announced Tuesday afternoon that the fire chief has issued a citywide burn ban due to the fire risk posed by the impending heat and lack of forecasted rain.

The burning ban is expected to last until summer.

Portland’s ban applies to backyard fires, yard debris burns and agricultural burns, the Fire Bureau said in a statement. Open-air burning normally permitted by permits is also prohibited until further notice, the Fire Bureau said.

Backyard barbecues will still be allowed, although grills, smokers and other backyard cooking appliances must be used at least 10 feet from anything flammable like bushes or fences, according to the Fire Bureau.

Firefighters recommend placing used charcoal briquettes in a covered metal bin to avoid accidentally starting a fire, and add that the ashes should be kept moist for several days before being thrown away.

All cigarettes or cigars must be extinguished before being thrown away, Fire Bureau officials said.

Washington County issued a stricter fireworks ban Monday. Portland and other jurisdictions such as Milwaukie and Eugene have also banned fireworks to mitigate fire risks.

— Tanner Todd covers crime and public safety. Contact him at [email protected] or 503-221-4313.