When backyard burning is allowed the following information will help you burn properly.

Forest Grove Open Burning Hotline: 503.992.3242

Always call this number for daily approval conditions prior to conducting burning operations. Please call after 8:30 a.m. to receive the most accurate and up-to-date burn information.

For Open Burning that is getting out of control call 9-1-1

We do not have the ability to enforce air quality concerns.  To report an illegal burn, smoke complaint, or air quality issue please call DEQ directly at 503-229-5393.

OPEN BURNING FAQ

Q: Who does backyard burning apply to?
A:All residents burning at a private home within Forest Grove Fire District, regardless of whether or not they are located within the city limits.  When you call our open burning hotline, you will hear a message that says that "burning is allowed outside the burn ban area", this area is determined by the Oregon DEQ and does not include Forest Grove, Cornelius, or our surrounding rural communities.  We include this information as part of our burn message because all of the other fire departments in Washington County use our Open Burning Hotline.  To see a map of the "Burn Ban Area" please use this link.

Q: What is acceptable to burn?
A:Back yard burning includes yard debris, trimmings and clippings only.  Dimensional lumber, trash, or other non yard debris items cannot be burned at any time.  Agricultural burning must include materials from a for profit agricultural process. 

Q: When can you burn?
A:October 1 through December 15 and March 1 through June 15 day to day depending on the conditions.

Please note even during designated burning seasons, it is necessary to phone the burn number each day to confirm that burning is allowed that particular day.  DEQ determines if burning will be open each day based on air quality conditions in our area.  Burning is closed during the winter months because of the high volume of smoke from wood stoves and fire places that is allready in the air. 

Notify and obtain permission from Forest Grove Fire & Rescue by filling out a Ceremonial Bonfire Application available from the Forest Grove Fire & Rescue Marshal’s Office.  A site inspection is required and must be requested at least five working days prior to the event. The local Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) must also grant approval for all open burning.