El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal, Fire Warden, issued the following statement after implementing Stage I Fire Restrictions for all unincorporated areas of El Paso County last week:

“Although precipitation levels and fuel conditions have improved throughout the Pikes Peak region, our indicators continue to demonstrate the need for precautions.

“Other fires across the nation, including the Front Range of Colorado, have drawn down readily available resources, which is a critical part of the decision-making matrix my Office uses when considering restrictions.

“Considering these circumstances, I am opting to remain vigilant in my approach to fire and will remain in Stage I Fire Restrictions for the time being.

“My staff briefs me regularly on current fuel conditions to ensure the most appropriate restriction level is maintained. As your Sheriff, I will continue to monitor conditions and make appropriate, responsible decisions about lifting, maintaining, or increasing county-wide restrictions in the future.

“I thank the citizens (and visitors) of El Paso County for their vigilance and dedication to preventing unnecessary wildfires. Prevention requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I am grateful to see our community actively working and engaged in this effort.”

Stage I Fire Restrictions are now in effect, and the following activities are prohibited by statute:

1. Open burning, with exceptions for fires and campfires within permanently constructed fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds; charcoal grills and wood-burning stoves at private residences in areas cleared (three feet distance) of all flammable materials.
2. The use of any fireworks without a professional display permit, outdoor pyrotechnics such as explosive targets, or model rockets.
3. Outdoor smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter, barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
4. Welding or operating an acetylene or similar torch with an open flame is prohibited except in an area cleared of vegetation.
5. No internal combustion engine operation without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order.
6. Prescribed burns: any previously issued permits for such burns are revoked.

Current restrictions took effect on July 31, 2024, and remain in effect until they are modified pursuant to El Paso County Ordinance #22-001.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office urges all citizens of and visitors to the Pikes Peak region to abide by the Order and share in the responsibility of keeping our community safe. Your cooperation is crucial in preventing potential fire hazards.

For updates on restrictions and guidelines, please go to: https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/services/fire-information

Please report any suspected violations of the Order by calling 719-390-5555.