Due to forest conditions and a number of key factors, the Coconino National Forest is implementing Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions starting at 8 a.m., Thursday, June 6, across the entire Coconino National Forest.
Under Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, wood stoves and smudge pots are prohibited, except within a developed recreation site.
Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or an official developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forests. Using a device that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum, propane, or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off is allowed in areas that are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three feet of the device.
Fire restrictions are implemented to help prevent human-caused fires and to limit the exposure of visitors during periods of potentially dangerous fire conditions, the Coconino NF stated in a press release. Decisions about fire restrictions are based on a combination of factors. Criteria used to determine when to implement restrictions include current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels, enduring drought and available firefighting resources.
Additional restrictions could be forthcoming if conditions warrant. Fire restrictions typically remain in effect until the area receives significant, widespread precipitation. Violations could result in mandatory appearance in a federal court, fines or jail time.
Always be cautious when recreating on public lands, regardless of restrictions.
Statewide fire restrictions
National forest fire restrictions can differ from local, county, and state fire restrictions, so be sure to check the location of where you are recreating or camping for specific fire restrictions. Below are resources for many different locations across Arizona:
- Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
- Arizona state and federal fire restrictions home page
- Arizona state and federal fire restrictions interactive map
- Arizona State Parks
- Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management
- Bureau of Land Management (no parcels in the Verde Valley)
- City of Flagstaff
- Coconino County
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Kaibab National Forest
- Prescott National Forest
- Tonto National Forest
