Open and Barrel Burning Information
How do I know if it's a burn day?
Call 476-9663. The daily message will advise whether or not it is a burn day where open and barrel burning are allowed.
What makes it a burn day?
Each day, the National Weather Service issues a prediction for the day. The predication takes into account the ventilation index (VI) as well as forecasted weather and wind speeds. If the ventilation index is 400 or above, and other conditions are favorable for burning, then burning is allowed on private lands. Forest agencies follow slightly different guidelines, so you may see smoke from prescribed burns on "no burn days" if they are conducting a burn in the area.
What is the ventilation index?
The ventilation index in the National Weather Service's indicator of the relative degree of air circulation for a specified area and time period. Basically, it is a measurement of the air's ability clear smoke rather than allow it to hang in the valleys.
Who has to follow the burn days?
According to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regulations, people who live in the Rogue Basin "Open Burn Control Area" can only burn on allowed burn days. You can call 474-5325 ext. 2228 or the DEQ at 541-776-6010 to ask if your home is in the Open Burn Control Area. You can also visit the Josephine County website for a map of the Open Burn Control Area. Go to www.co.josephine.or.us and click on the link on the left hand side of the page for Air Quality. During fire season, no outdoor burning of any kind is allowed in Josephine County. You can contact the Oregon Department of Forestry at 541-474-3152 for more information about fire season restrictions.
What materials can I burn?
Approved materials to burn include yard debris, untreated wood, plain paper, and uncoated cardboard. All materials should be thoroughly dry; wet materials give off a lot of dense smoke and noxious odors, and take much longer to burn. In addition, heavy smoke can impact your neighbors, especially those with respiratory diseases or heart conditions.
You cannot burn plastics (such as plastic wrap, tarps, food containers, etc.), asbestos, tires or other rubber products, garbage and food waste, wire insulation, waste oil and other petroleum products, automobile parts including frames, or any animal products.
Burning of prohibited materials can result in a fine of up to $10,000 per day!
You cannot burn plastics (such as plastic wrap, tarps, food containers, etc.), asbestos, tires or other rubber products, garbage and food waste, wire insulation, waste oil and other petroleum products, automobile parts including frames, or any animal products.
Burning of prohibited materials can result in a fine of up to $10,000 per day!
How do I report an illegal burn?
Call the Josephine County Health Department at 541-474-5325 ext 2228 or the DEQ st 541-776-6010. It is helpful for them to know the address of the illegal burn and the type of materials being burned. You can remain anonymous, but it is helpful if someone can call you back to get more information if necessary.