NEWPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT

NEWPORT RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

CONDITIONS AND STIPULATIONS FOR DEBRIS BURNING, RECREATIONAL FIRES AND ALTERNATE COOKING

In an effort to bring clarity and uniformity to conditions of fire use in our community the following terms and definitions will be used.  At times some confusion may exist and the final decision on conditional use will reside with the Fire Chief or Fire Marshal to protect the community as a whole.

Burning Ban:  This announcement will occur after a discussion with all Lincoln County fire agencies as a result of high temperatures, low humidity, high winds, periods of drought, Red Flag Warnings, sustained low fuel moisture recovery or regional impacts that affect fire control capabilities.  During this level all outdoor solid based fires (charcoal and wood) are not to be used, gas grills are still allowed in most instances.

Burning Suspension:  A burning suspension relates to yard debris burning by permit. On occasion a suspension may, occur during that period known as the burning season.  The suspension typically is for a short period of time and is used to reduce the threat of fire escape from a controlled fire to a wildfire.

Recreation Fires:  Recreation fires are those fires where firewood in natural form are used (May be used for cooking, pleasure, religious, ceremonial, warmth or other such purposes) no construction material such as 2X4 dimensional lumber, plywood, demolition residue or plastics are allowed.  The fire shall be attended at all times. Shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, shall not be any larger than 3 feet in diameter, and shall not exceed 2 feet (24 inches) in height.  Recreation fires do not, in most instances require a permit.

Burning Permit/Yard Debris: The fire debris burning pile can be no larger than 3 feet (36”) by 3 feet (36”) and 2 feet (24”) tall.  Construction materials, dimensional lumber and plywood or plastics are not allowed.  Land clearing of large piles of debris is not a permit function of NFD, contact Oregon Department of Forestry concerning land clearing (541)-336-2273.  A water source to extinguish the fire is required and must be present at all times during burning.  All material being burned must be from the property where burning is taking place.  Fires in an open pit must be 25 feet from the nearest building, shed or wood fence.  Burn barrels must be at least 15 feet from the nearest building, shed or wooden fence.  Newport Fire department must be contacted at 541-265-9461 each day before initiating yard debris burning.  Should you reach a recording at this number leave your name, address and permit number on the voice mail.

Burn Permits are free of charge and can be obtained by contacting th Fire Station.

Updated 3/20/2020