Stage 2 Fire Restrictions effective June 20, 2024

Release Date: Jun 20, 2024

Contact(s): Steven Johnson

SPRINGERVILLE, Ariz. – June 20, 2024 – The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions effective at 8 a.m. on June 20, 2024. The purpose of these restrictions is to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of high fire danger and severe fire weather conditions. Criteria used to determine when to implement fire restrictions include current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels and available firefighting resources.

What is prohibited:

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a).
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(d).

The Following Acts Are Prohibited From 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.:

• Operating a generator, chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine for felling, bucking, skidding, processing, road building and woodcutting during industrial operations or firewood gathering capable of igniting a fire. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(h), (j).
• Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b).
• Blasting, welding, or operating any acetylene or other torch with an open flame. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(i).

Exemptions:

• Persons using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.
• Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer that a permit is not required under 36 C.F.R. § 251.50(e)(1) or (2).
• Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting resource in the performance of an official duty.

To view Forest Order 03-01-24-15: Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, please go to the Alerts & Notices page on our website