Fire restrictions in Moffat County will be reduced from Stage 2 to Stage 1 beginning September 11, 2025, at 12:01 a.m., according to an announcement by the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office. The change comes after consultation with the Little Snake Bureau of Land Management, Dinosaur National Monument, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service at Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge.
The new rules apply to all unincorporated private, state, BLM, NPS, and USFWS lands within Moffat County. Officials stated that while conditions have improved enough to relax restrictions, residents and visitors must remain cautious to help reduce wildfire risks.
Under Stage 1 fire restrictions:
– Open burning is not allowed except for campfires within permanently constructed fire grates in developed campgrounds or fires at private residences if flammable materials are cleared away.
– The use of fireworks, blasting caps, tracer rounds, exploding targets, or any incendiary devices remains prohibited.
– Welding or torch operations are only permitted in cleared areas (10 feet in all directions) with a five-pound fire extinguisher and a 36-inch round-point shovel immediately available.
– Smoking outdoors is banned except inside vehicles or buildings, at developed recreation sites, or while stopped in a cleared area at least three feet wide.
– Internal combustion engines must have spark-arresting devices installed and functioning properly.
Authorities reminded the public that these restrictions will stay in place until further notice. Cooperation is considered essential for protecting lives and property as well as natural resources from wildfire threats.
A statement from officials emphasized continued vigilance: “This change reflects improving conditions, but continued caution is required to help reduce the risk of wildfires.”
Additionally, fireworks are never allowed on federal lands. Violating Stage 1 fire restrictions can result in fines up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to one year.
More information about local fire restriction policies can be found through Colorado Emergency Management and the Bureau of Land Management’s Little Snake Field Office.
