Due to continued high fire danger and the need to protect public health and safety, after collaborating with the Fire Chiefs of the Pikes Peak region and considering current weather conditions and ongoing lack of moisture, under the authority of Sheriff and Fire Warden Joseph Roybal, El Paso County has entered Stage II Fire Restrictions, beginning today, February 16, at 1 pm.
These mandatory restrictions apply to all unincorporated areas of the county.
“The current conditions create an extreme risk for wildfires which can spread rapidly and threaten lives, homes, and critical infrastructure,” said Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “As the County’s Fire Warden, it is my duty to protect life and property for our citizens. Stage II Fire Restrictions are necessary to reduce the risk of human-caused fires and to ensure the safety of our residents, visitors, and first responders. We appreciate the public’s cooperation during this critical time.”
Below is a guide to help residents and visitors understand what is permitted and what is strictly prohibited during Stage II Fire Restrictions.
PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
To minimize the risk of accidental ignition, the following activities are strictly banned:
- Open Burning & Fires: All open fires and open burning are prohibited. This includes campfires, warming fires, charcoal grill fires, and the use of wood-burning stoves (except as noted below).
- Fireworks: The sale and use of all fireworks are strictly prohibited.
- Outdoor Smoking: Smoking is prohibited outdoors. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle or building.
- Explosives: The use of explosives is prohibited.
PERMITTED ACTIVITIES
The following activities are allowed only when the specific safety requirements are met:
- Indoor Heating & Fireplaces
- The use of fireplaces or wood-burning stoves is permitted, provided they are located within a building.
- 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 able to be immediately extinguished by a switch, valve, or tip-over safety switch.
- 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.
Sheriff Roybal will continuously monitor conditions in El Paso County, and update restriction conditions as appropriate.