After a thorough review of current fire danger conditions, the recent precipitation levels, and consideration of the El Paso County Wildland Fire Restriction Evaluation Guidelines, Sheriff and Fire Warden Joseph Roybal has downgraded the status for El Paso County from Stage II (implemented on June 29, 2026) to Stage I Fire Restrictions, effective today at 1 PM, for all unincorporated areas of El Paso County.
El Paso County Sheriff and Fire Warden Joseph Roybal issued the following statement:
“Recent rainfall and improving weather patterns across the Pikes Peak region have significantly reduced fire danger, allowing us to move from Stage II to Stage I Fire Restrictions. This change reflects careful monitoring of local conditions and extensive coordination with our district fire chiefs. While vegetation has responded well to recent moisture, fire season is far from over.
“Stage I Fire Restrictions remain in place because the potential for dangerous wildfires still exists. Every resident and visitor plays a role in protecting our communities, open spaces, and natural resources by using caution with any activity capable of starting a fire.
“I appreciate the public’s commitment to fire prevention throughout this season. Continued awareness and responsible behavior will help keep our neighborhoods safe and reduce the likelihood of destructive wildfires as we move through the remainder of the summer.”
Stage I Fire Restrictions
Updated restrictions take effect today, August 21, 2026, at 1 PM, and will remain in place until modified pursuant to El Paso County Ordinance #22-001.Sheriff Roybal will continue to review weather and fire-danger conditions and notify the community of any changes to restrictions as appropriate.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents and visitors to the Pikes Peak region to comply with the Order and share responsibility for keeping our community safe. Public cooperation plays a critical role in preventing potential fire hazards.
For updates on fire restrictions and guidelines, visit:
https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/services/fire-information
Suspected violations of the Order should be reported by calling 719-390-5555.
Inmate Death at the El Paso County Jail
11/10/2026
At approximately 5:33 AM on November 10, 2026, a 58-year-old (incarcerated) male was found unresponsive in his bunk at the El Paso County Jail. El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies and medical staff quickly began rendering lifesaving efforts. At approximately 5:54 AM, medical personnel from American Medical Response (AMR) and the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) arrived and assumed medical