Fire Danger Levels Definitions

Fire Restrictions on the Angeles National Forest

Fire Use Restrictions on the Angeles are determined by a graduated system that becomes more restrictive as fire danger levels increase. The 'High' fire danger level is the third in a six-level graduated rating system which is used by the Angeles as a tool to convey current fire danger levels to forest visitors. These levels each convey an intended use restriction to inform people of the limits of fire use under the cumulative fire danger for the forest. A variety of criteria is used to determine when the level should be increased including vegetation moisture, weather conditions and firefighting staffing/equipment needs.

Fire Danger Levels 

The current fire danger level at the Angeles National Forest remains at "MODERATE". 

What does this mean to you? Learn more: news release.  

   LOW

• All stoves and campfires require a valid California Campfire Permit. Get your Campfire Permit online at Prevent Wild Fire | Campfire Permit (preventwildfiresca.org).

 

   MODERATE

• All previous restrictions apply. 
• Wood or charcoal use allowed at developed campgrounds and picnic sites/day use areas. 
• Camp stoves are allowed outside of all campgrounds, picnic sites, or day-use areas.

 

   HIGH

• All previous restrictions apply.
• Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame is prohibited without a written permit.
• Forest Service-approved spark arresters are required on off-highway vehicles, chainsaws, and other internal combustion engines.
• Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, is prohibited except in an authorized public shooting range. 
• Smoking is allowed only in an enclosed vehicle and developed recreation sites.

 

   VERY HIGH

• All previous restrictions apply.

 

   EXTREME

• All previous restrictions apply.
• No wood or charcoal use fires.  
• No smoking is allowed. 
• Operating an internal combustion engine is restricted. 
• Recreational opportunities on the Angeles National Forest or San Gabriel Mountains National Monument after sundown or before sunrise may be restricted.

 

   CRITICAL

• National Forest access is restricted to federal, state, and county highways and private lands. 
• All activities are restricted. 
• All Forest Service recreational areas are closed to the public, unless otherwise noted.  
• Contractors, residents, and permittees are allowed onto forest roads by permit only.

 

Please remember to observe fire safety measures!

Dry summers, steep slopes, and dense vegetation make wildfires a constant threat to National Forests, especially during the hot summer months. Wildfires destroy trees and hillside vegetation, endanger lives and property, and damage vital watersheds. Your help is needed to preserve these valuable lands from the ravages of wildfire.

Please help protect the forest by checking with your local Forest Service office for current regulations and by observing fire-safety measures during your visit.