Fire Danger Is HIGH in Douglas County — Here’s How to Protect Your Property (and Stay Within the Rules)

The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) raised the fire danger level to HIGH across the Douglas District effective July 11 — and that changes how and when you can do property work.

With drought emergencies declared statewide, record-low snowpack, and above-normal temperatures forecast through October, Oregon's 2026 fire season is shaping up to be one of the most challenging in years. Here in Douglas County, we know how fast conditions can change.

The good news? You can still protect your property — you just need to plan your work around the current restrictions.

What HIGH Fire Danger Means for Property Owners

Under the DFPA's HIGH public use restrictions, the following activities are only allowed before 10:00 AM or after 8:00 PM:

Important: Battery and electric string trimmers are exempt from these time restrictions. Each piece of equipment must have a shovel and a 2.5-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher immediately available. A one-hour fire watch is required after work is completed for the day.

Debris burning is prohibited during fire season. For the full list of current restrictions, visit dfpa.net/public-fire-restrictions.

Make the Most of Your Work Windows

With only early morning and evening hours to operate equipment, your time is limited. That makes two things critical:

What Is Defensible Space?

Defensible space is the buffer zone between your home and the surrounding wildland. The Oregon State Fire Marshal recommends at least 100 feet of cleared, managed space around structures (oregondefensiblespace.org).

Key steps:

How Your Kubota Can Help

Your Fire Season Checklist

Don't Wait — Get Your Equipment Ready