Stage 1 fire restrictions to replace Stage 2 on San Juan National Forest

The San Juan National Forest is rescinding Stage 2 fire restrictions effective 12:01 a.m. Thursday, July 30, on all National Forest System lands.

Stage 1 fire restrictions will remain in place for Zone 1 (lower elevations identified as Zone 1 in the order map). See Forest Order and maps for more details: https://tinyurl.com/5n7xa779.

Prohibited activities under Stage 1 include:

1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes), except if it is in:

• A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas);
• A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 3 feet of the device; or
• A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least 5 feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a ¼ inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.

2. Using an explosive.

3. Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle, building or a developed recreation site,

4. Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except if in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8-ounce capacity and rating of Class 2A) is kept with the operator.