October 26, 2026 | Lookingglass Rural Fire District

The Lookingglass Rural Fire District (LRFD) would like to inform residents that the Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) has officially declared the end of the 2026 fire season, effective Monday, October 26, 2026, at 8:01 a.m.

The decision follows recent rainfall and cooler temperatures throughout Douglas County, which have significantly reduced the risk of wildland fires. With this announcement, all public use and industrial fire restrictions implemented by DFPA during the 2026 fire season have been lifted.

What This Means for Lookingglass Residents

With fire season officially over, backyard debris burning outside incorporated cities is once again permitted without obtaining a burn permit from DFPA. However, residents should verify any additional restrictions that may apply within their local fire district before beginning any outdoor burning.

Logging slash burning still requires a permit from DFPA, even outside the designated fire season. This includes burning excess debris resulting from commercial timber harvesting. For information regarding logging slash permits, contact DFPA at 541-672-6507.

Residents and recreationists should also be aware that private industrial timberland owners and other public land management agencies may maintain their own restrictions or closures independent of DFPA's fire season declaration.

Information regarding private forestland closures is available at:

https://ofic.com/private-forestland-closures/

Outdoor Burning Safety Remains a Priority

Although the official fire season has ended, LRFD reminds residents that the potential for escaped debris burns and vegetation fires remains throughout the fall and winter months.

Several consecutive days of sunshine, low humidity, or windy conditions can quickly dry vegetation and increase fire danger, even following significant rainfall.

Residents conducting outdoor debris burning should continue to follow these important safety practices:

• Establish a firebreak: Clear combustible vegetation and materials from around your burn pile before ignition.
• Maintain a water supply: Keep a charged garden hose or other adequate water source readily available.
• Have firefighting tools nearby: Shovels, rakes, and other appropriate tools should be accessible.
• Monitor weather conditions: Avoid burning during periods of high winds or unusually dry weather.
• Never leave a fire unattended: Someone should remain at the burn site until the fire is completely extinguished.
• Ensure complete extinguishment: Thoroughly soak and stir remaining ashes and debris to eliminate hot spots before leaving.

Residents are reminded that individuals responsible for escaped debris burns may be held financially liable for fire suppression costs and associated property damages.

Thank You for a Safe 2026 Fire Season

Lookingglass Rural Fire District would like to extend its appreciation to the residents of Lookingglass and the surrounding communities for their cooperation and commitment to fire prevention throughout the 2026 fire season.

We also recognize the efforts of DFPA, neighboring fire districts, state and federal firefighting agencies, and the many personnel who worked throughout the season to protect our communities and natural resources.

While the conclusion of fire season marks a welcome transition into the cooler months, our responsibility to prevent fires continues year-round.

LRFD encourages everyone to remain vigilant, practice responsible outdoor burning, and help us continue protecting the Lookingglass community.