The backyard burn ban Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue imposed three weeks ago remains in effect with no announced end date.

As of Sunday, July 5, TVF&R's website confirms the High-Fire Danger Burn Ban is still active across its entire jurisdiction, including Bethany, Cedar Mill, Oak Hills, and West Haven-Sylvan. The ban took effect Saturday, June 13, at 12:01 a.m.

The restriction prohibits all backyard or open burning of branches and yard debris, all agricultural burning, and all land-clearing or controlled burns. Violators face immediate extinguishment of their fires and potential liability for all suppression costs and legal fees under ORS 478.965.

Grills, smokers, and small recreational fires are still allowed. Cooking and warming fires must stay within three feet in diameter and two feet in height, be placed away from vegetation, and be fully extinguished after use.

Gov. Tina Kotek signed Executive Order 26-10 on June 15, declaring a statewide wildfire emergency. The order remains in effect until the fire threat lessens significantly, fire season ends, or December 31.

As of mid-June, Oregon had already recorded 414 fires burning more than 8,000 acres, according to the governor's office. Kotek declared drought in 17 of the state's 36 counties since March. The governor's office expects fire season to last through October.

"On average, 70% of wildfires in Oregon are human-caused," Kotek said in her emergency declaration. "Prevention starts with every Oregonian."

The burn ban was coordinated with the Washington County Fire Defense Board and the Oregon Department of Forestry. Residents living on or within one-eighth mile of ODF-protected land in rural Washington County may face additional restrictions, including prohibitions on campfires, smoking, target shooting, and powered equipment.

Fireworks that fly, explode, or travel on the ground more than six feet remain illegal under Oregon law year-round. That includes bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, and M80s. Fines can reach $500 per violation.

For fire or medical emergencies, call 911. To report illegal fireworks or nuisance concerns in TVF&R's service area, call the non-emergency line at 503-629-0111. Residents can check current burn restrictions at tvfr.com.