Attention those on roadtrips, hikers, campers, and adventurers…
In response to increasing wildfire threats fueled by extreme temperatures, low humidity, and dry vegetation, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has issued immediate fire restrictions across the public lands it manages in Arizona, Southern California, and Southern Nevada.
The decision comes as the region faces intensified fire conditions and mirrors similar fire prevention orders issued earlier this year by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Affected Areas
The restrictions cover the following counties:
- Nevada: Clark County
- Arizona: Mohave, Coconino, Yavapai, Maricopa, Gila, Pinal, Pima, Cochise, Graham, La Paz, Yuma
- California: Imperial, Riverside
Key Fire Restrictions Now in Effect
To protect public lands and ensure visitor safety, the Bureau of Reclamation has enacted the following prohibitions:
- No Open Fires: Campfires, charcoal grills, and open flame cooking are banned except in designated fire rings or grills at developed recreation sites. Portable gas stoves using pressurized liquid fuel are allowed but must be used with extreme caution.
- Welding and Torches: Use of welding equipment or acetylene torches is prohibited without a special permit.
- Explosives and Fireworks: All types of fireworks and explosive devices, including “Safe and Sane” fireworks, are strictly banned.
- Incendiary Devices: Tracer rounds, steel-jacketed ammunition, and similar fire-prone devices are not permitted.
- Spark Arrestors: All combustion engines must have approved spark arrestors installed.
- Smoking: Smoking is only permitted inside fully enclosed vehicles.
Enforcement and Penalties
The Bureau warns that anyone violating these fire restrictions may face legal consequences, including:
- Fines and/or up to six months of imprisonment
- Enforcement under Title 43 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Parts 423 and 429)
The restrictions will remain in place until local BLM offices officially downgrade fire danger levels or lift seasonal bans.
Public Guidance and Contact
For more information, individuals are encouraged to contact:
Justin DeMaio
Environmental Compliance Group, Lower Colorado Basin
(702) 293-8359
[email protected]
The Bureau urges the public to exercise caution and do their part in preventing wildfires as the Southwest endures another intense fire season.
