Fire Restriction Stages Explained

Learn about the different fire restriction stages including stage 1 fire restrictions. Also learn about burn bans and how to stay compliant in your local area.

Fire restrictions are implemented in stages to reduce wildfire risks, with each stage imposing stricter limitations based on increasing fire danger. As conditions worsen, restrictions are expanded to include activities like campfires, smoking, and the use of certain equipment. These staged measures help manage fire risks effectively and protect both communities and natural resources.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions prohibit igniting, building, maintaining, or using any fire at all times, including charcoal and briquettes. Smoking outdoors is also prohibited. However, there are some exemptions to these restrictions. Individuals may use a stove or grill that is powered by propane or other pressurized gas fuels. Campfires are allowed within designated fire structures provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites. Additionally, smoking is permitted within an enclosed vehicle or building, within developed recreation sites, or in areas cleared of all flammable material, with a minimum diameter of three feet. Federal, state, or local officers and members of organized rescue or firefighting forces are exempt when performing official duties.¹

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions introduce several new rules not included in Stage 1. In addition to the fire bans from Stage 1, Stage 2 specifically prohibits the use of open-flame torches, welding, and blasting. It also restricts the use of motorized vehicles on certain forest roads in specific areas, though hiking, biking, and walking remain allowed. From 9 AM to 8 PM, the operation of equipment like generators, chainsaws, or other engine-powered tools used for activities such as woodcutting or firewood gathering is prohibited.¹

Stage 3 Fire Restrictions

Stage 3, or “Forest Closure,” introduces the most severe restrictions, where all entry is prohibited due to extreme fire danger. In some cases, specific areas of a National Forest may be closed, known as “Area Closures,” or the entire forest may be shut down. When a closure is in effect, the public is not allowed to enter any National Forest lands, roads, or trails. All important projects, such as forest restoration, timber thinning, watershed preservation, trail maintenance, campsite upkeep, and post-fire restoration, are halted in these areas. Additionally, during full forest closures, access to lakes, streams, creeks, or ponds is also prohibited, even if those locations are usually open under special use permits.¹

Local Burn Bans Explained

Burn bans, also known as open burning restrictions, are temporary regulations designed to prevent wildfires and protect public safety during dry weather and high fire-risk conditions. These bans prohibit outdoor burning activities such as campfires, bonfires, burning yard waste, and the use of fireworks. Essentially, a burn ban means that you cannot burn anything outdoors, whether it’s yard debris, trash, or even a recreational campfire, within a designated area. Burn bans are typically enacted due to factors like drought, dry vegetation, and high temperatures, all of which increase the likelihood of wildfires. The goal is to minimize the risk of fires spreading, which could threaten homes, property, and natural resources. During a burn ban, activities such as open burning, setting off fireworks, smoking in fire-prone areas, and using equipment that can spark a fire, like torches or welding tools, are prohibited to help ensure public safety.²

Stay Up to Date with Current Wildfires in Your Area

The Western Fire Chiefs Association (WFCA) offers an interactive fire map that provides real-time information about active wildfires across the United States. This tool allows users to easily view current wildfire locations, containment levels, and other critical data. To stay up to date with wildfires in your area, simply visit the WFCA’s fire map online, where you can track ongoing incidents and get the latest updates on fire activity and safety alerts.³