About Gresham: 

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov. 

GRESHAM, Ore. – The Gresham Fire Department is currently investigating two fires that took place on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. 

Shortly before 5 a.m., Gresham Fire and Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a fire alarm activation at the East Portland Moose Lodge. Fire crews noticed two broken windows at the front of the building where fires were actively burning. Crews quickly extinguished the fire and called for a fire investigator. 

Just after 9:15 a.m., crews responded to a fire at a church on NE Halsey St., near the scene of the fire at the East Portland Moose Lodge fire. Firefighters noticed two broken windows near areas with fire damage and once again called for the fire investigator to assess the scene.  

In both instances, the fire investigator determined these incidents were the result of an intentionally set fire, and it is suspected these incidents may be related. Gresham Fire is working closely with the Gresham Police Department to investigate.  

Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to contact Gresham Fire at 503-618-2355. 

GRESHAM, Ore. – The Gresham Fire Department has announced the implementation of a full burn ban for all areas of the cities of Gresham, Fairview, Wood Village, Troutdale, and unincorporated Multnomah County (Fire District 10), effective immediately. This action is directed by the Multnomah County Fire Defense Board due to continued hot, dry weather conditions and increased fire danger across the region as forecasted by the Pacific Northwest Geographic Area Coordinating Center. 
 

The burn ban includes: 

• Backyard burning 

• Recreational campfires and fire pits 

• Agricultural burning and Burning with a permit, including agricultural wastes, field burning, and any previously permitted open burning such as land clearing, slash, stump, or debris burning. 

The ban will remain in effect throughout the summer season until autumn weather allows a return to permitted open burning. 

“This decision is rooted in our responsibility to protect the community and our natural resources,” said Fire Defense Board Chief Chris Barney. “Conditions continue to be dry, and human-caused fires remain one of our greatest risks. Limiting open burning is one of our most effective preventative measures.” 
 

Outdoor cooking using grills, smokers, and other cooking appliances fueled by charcoal, wood chips, pellets, propane, or natural gas are still allowed at this time with extreme caution. When using charcoal briquettes, dispose of ashes only in covered metal containers away from combustibles. Soak ashes in water for several days before final disposal. 

Additional Safety Reminders: 

• Maintain at least 10 feet between any outdoor cooking and combustible materials (e.g., structures, fences, shrubs). 

• Citizens that smoke must ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished before discarding them in a metal container away from combustibles. 

• Rural property owners are urged to maintain wildfire defensible space around structures, reduce dry vegetation, and ensure emergency vehicle access. 

Contact Gresham Fire with Questions at 503-618-2355