SPRINGFIELD, Ore. – The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA) has announced the official start of the spring outdoor burning season in Lane County, allowing residents to dispose of yard debris through burning. The season began on March 1, with specific regulations to help mitigate smoke impact and ensure safe practices.
During this period, residents of Lane County will be allowed to burn dry yard debris such as branches and brush, but only during designated hours. LRAPA will issue daily advisories at 7 p.m. to inform residents of the specific burn times for the following day, aiming to minimize smoke impact on neighborhoods and surrounding areas.
However, the ability to burn yard debris is not available to all Lane County residents. Restrictions vary based on location and property size. Residents of Eugene and Florence within city limits are prohibited from burning yard debris. In Springfield, only residents with properties of at least half an acre can participate in outdoor burning. Meanwhile, those living within the Eugene urban growth boundary must have a minimum of 2 acres of land to burn. Outside of these areas, residents are generally permitted to burn yard debris, regardless of property size.
LRAPA has provided a series of guidelines to ensure safe and effective burning. Residents are encouraged to ensure their debris piles are fully dry before lighting them. Active burn piles must be constantly supervised, and it is crucial to extinguish all burn piles at the end of each burn period. Unsanctioned overnight burning or smoldering is strictly prohibited due to the high fire hazard it presents.
While burning yard debris is an option, LRAPA also encourages residents to consider alternative disposal methods such as composting or wood chipping, which can be more environmentally friendly.
As the burning season progresses, residents are reminded to follow all guidelines and remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent fires and manage smoke in the region.
