Fire Information

STAGE I RESTRICTIONS

Stage I restrictions are designed to reduce the likelihood of human-caused fires while still allowing for certain recreational and residential activities under strict safety guidelines.

– PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES

The following activities are strictly prohibited while Stage I restrictions are in effect:

• NOT ALLOWED: Open Burning All general open burning is banned. Any previously issued open burn permits are hereby revoked.
  
  • Open Burning is prohibited during Red Flag Warnings, with or without fire restrictions in place.
• NOT ALLOWED: Fireworks The sale and use of fireworks are prohibited.
• NOT ALLOWED: Model Rockets The launching of model rockets is prohibited.
• NOT ALLOWED: Explosives Use of explosive targets or any other outdoor pyrotechnics is prohibited.

– ALLOWED WITH RESTRICTIONS

The following activities are allowed ONLY if the specific safety requirements are met:

1. Campfires & Cooking: Developed Campgrounds, Developed Picnic Areas, Private Residences:
   
   • Campfires and fires are permitted only within permanently constructed fire grates in areas cleared at least 3’ of all flammable materials. (Rock fire rings are considered temporary); or
   • Fires contained within liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves, fire pits or appliances; liquid propane (LPG), or natural gas; cleared at least 3 feet of all flammable materials, with flames lengths not exceeding 2 feet.
   • Charcoal grills, pellet stoves, chimineas or other fixed fireplaces and appliances that are fueled with clean solid materials such as clean wood or pellets.
   • Fireplaces or wood burning stoves located within a building.
2. Outdoor Smoking
   
   • Smoking is permitted only within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
3. Outdoor Welding & Torch Operations
   
   • Welding or operating an acetylene (or similar) torch with an open flame is allowed only if performed in an area cleared of all vegetation and flammable materials.

STAGE II RESTRICTIONS

In the interest of public health and safety, Stage II restrictions are designed to reduce the likelihood of human-caused fires during times of continued high fire danger.

– PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES

To minimize the risk of accidental ignition, the following activities are strictly banned:

• NOT ALLOWED: Open Burning & Fires All open fires and open burning are prohibited. This includes campfires; warming fires; charcoal grill, pellet stoves, chimineas or other fixed fireplaces and appliances, and the use of wood-burning stoves (except as noted below).
• NOT ALLOWED: Fireworks The sale and use of fireworks are prohibited.
• NOT ALLOWED: Model Rockets The launching of model rockets is prohibited.
• NOT ALLOWED: Explosives Use of explosive targets or any other outdoor pyrotechnics is prohibited.

– ALLOWED WITH RESTRICTIONS

The following activities are allowed only when the specific safety requirements are met:

1. Indoor Heating & Fireplaces
   • The use of fireplaces or wood-burning stoves is permitted, provided they are located within a building.
2. Gas-Fueled Appliances (Stoves, Fire Pits, & Appliances)
   • Allowed Locations: Only in developed campgrounds, picnic grounds, or at private residences.
   • Required Fuel: Must be fueled by liquid propane (LPG), natural gas, or other liquid fuels.
   • Safety Clearance: The area must be cleared of all flammable materials for at least 3 feet in all directions.
   • Flame Limits: Flame lengths must not exceed 2 feet.
   • Shut-off Mechanism: The appliance must be immediately extinguished by a switch, valve, or tip-over safety switch.
3. Outdoor Welding & Torch Operations (“Hot Work”)
   • Clearance: Work must be performed in a clear area at least 30 feet in diameter.
   • Fire Watch: A dedicated fire watch must be established with ready access to a fire extinguisher or water supply to immediately suppress any resulting fire.

Violations of Stage II restrictions may result in a fine of up to $1,000.00 per violation.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office website and local media for updates on fire stages and restrictions.