Burning Man co-founder Larry Harvey penned the original 10 Principles in 2004 as guiding lights for the nascent Regional Network. They weren’t rules but rather reflections of the community’s ethos, evolving naturally since the event’s inception. In following the lead of other Regionals, Burnt Oranges has embraced the addition of the 11th Principle, Consent, to the roster.

Radical Inclusion: Burnt Oranges welcomes all. We embrace and honor the stranger without prerequisites for participation in our community.

Gifting: Our ethos is rooted in the spirit of giving. The worth of a gift is boundless, devoid of expectations for reciprocity.

Decommodification: To preserve the essence of gifting, we cultivate social spaces free from commercial influences. We guard against exploitation and prioritize participatory experiences over consumerism.

Radical Self-reliance: We empower individuals to tap into their inner resources, fostering self-discovery and autonomy.

Radical Self-expression: Each person’s unique gifts fuel radical self-expression. Only the individual or a collaborative effort can shape its form, always respecting the autonomy of others.

Communal Effort: Collaboration and creative cooperation form the backbone of our community. We champion initiatives that foster interaction and communal creation.

Civic Responsibility: We uphold the principles of civil society, advocating for public welfare and adherence to legal standards in all community events.

Leaving No Trace: Environmental stewardship is a fundamental principle. We are committed to leaving no physical trace of our activities, striving to leave spaces in a better state than we found them.

Participation: We champion a culture of active engagement, believing that personal and societal transformation springs from deep involvement. Everyone is encouraged to contribute and engage, fostering connections that enrich our shared reality.

Immediacy: Direct experience holds supreme value. We strive to break down barriers that hinder genuine connection with ourselves, others, society, and the natural world.

Consent: We recognize the importance of boundaries and consent in all interactions. Each individual defines their boundaries, and it is the responsibility of all community members to seek and respect definitive consent in every interaction. Consent applies to one’s experiences, body, and property, and is not assumed based on group behavior or past experiences.