Full Notification

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions: What You Need to Know

That a fire ban is necessary to reduce the danger of wildfires within all private land in the unincorporated areas of San Juan County.

Strictly Prohibited Activities

• Open Fires & Campfires: No wood or charcoal fires, campfires, or wood stoves.

• Smoking: Smoking outdoors is prohibited unless you are in a cleared area at least 3 feet in diameter, free of all flammable vegetation.

• Explosives & Fireworks: All consumer fireworks, blasting caps, and incendiary devices are banned.

• Uncertified Equipment: Operating chainsaws, generators, or ATVs/motorcycles without a properly maintained, approved spark arrester.

Permitted Activities (With Conditions)

• Propane/Gas Stoves: Liquid petroleum or propane-fueled stoves and grills are permitted anywhere.

• Designated Campfires: Campfires and charcoal grills are only allowed in designated, permanent fire structures within developed recreation sites (like established campgrounds).

• Smoking in Safe Zones: Smoking is permitted inside enclosed vehicles, buildings, or developed recreation sites.

• Commercial Fireworks: Large-scale commercial or municipal displays are allowed only with prior written approval from the San Juan County Sheriff.

Mandatory Safety Requirements for Work & Equipment

If you are welding or operating internal combustion engines (chainsaws, ATVs, generators), you must comply with the following:

• Spark Arresters: Must meet USDA Forest Service Standard 5100-1a or SAE J335(b)/J350 standards.

• Welding/Torch Clearance: You must clear a safety zone of at least 10 feet in diameter around the welding area.

• Required Tools on Hand: If operating a chainsaw or welding, you must have a shovel and a pressurized chemical fire extinguisher (minimum 8 oz capacity, Class 2A rating) immediately available with the operator.
  https://sanjuancounty.colorado.gov/fire

Instructions:

San Juan County Fire Restrictions: Required Actions
1. Extinguish: Put out all wood or charcoal fires immediately (unless you are in a designated campground structure).
2. Switch to Propane: Use only gas or propane stoves/grills for outdoor cooking.
3. Check Equipment: Stop welding or chainsaw use unless you have a cleared area, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher on hand.

Report: Call 911 for smoke or flames. Report rule violations to 970-387-5531. The non-emergency Sherrif's number