Today, after a thorough review of current fire danger conditions, predicted weather forecasts, a review of resource allocations, and consideration of the El Paso County Wildland Fire Restriction Evaluation Guidelines, Sheriff and Fire Warden Joseph Roybal will implement Stage II Fire Restrictions, effective today at 1 PM, for all unincorporated areas of El Paso County.
“Protecting the safety of our residents remains my highest priority,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “With strong winds, dry conditions, several active fires across Colorado stretching available resources, and above-average temperatures continuing across our region — with little relief expected in the coming days — the risk of wildfire activity in the Pikes Peak area has increased significantly.
“The decision to enact Stage II Fire Restrictions was made in partnership with local fire district chiefs to help reduce wildfire risk throughout our communities.
“As these restrictions take effect, I encourage everyone to stay informed, follow all fire restriction guidelines, and use caution while enjoying Colorado’s beautiful outdoor spaces.
“Through shared responsibility and awareness, we can help prevent wildfires and keep our community safe.”
Stage II
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).
- 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.
FIREWORKS
Pursuant to ORDINANCE NO. 22-00, adopted by the Board of El Paso County Commissioners, from May 31 to July 5, the use and sale of fireworks shall not be restricted unless a resolution is adopted by the County (C.R.S. §§ 30-15 401(1)(n.5)(V)(A) and (1)(n.7).
Updated restrictions take effect today, June 29, 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.
*The original version of this media release included Stage I Fire Restrictions. After receiving additional updates from our Emergency Management, Law Enforcement, and Wildland Fire partners across Colorado, Sheriff Roybal is upgrading the Stage I Fire Restrictions (effective today at 1 pm) to Stage II Fire Restrictions.