Due to current conditions, the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests have enacted Stage 1 fire restrictions across National Forest lands in Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson and Larimer counties beginning today, Tuesday, August 12, 2025. This decision was made in collaboration with sheriff offices, local fire districts and other federal land managers. Stage 1 fire restrictions limit activities with a high potential of starting wildfires, including campfires. The purpose of these restrictions is to protect public health, safety, and natural resources by preventing wildfires. The western portion of the forest in Grand County was already under Stage 1 restrictions.
During Stage 1 fire restrictions, open fires are only permitted within Forest Service installed and maintained fire rings and picnic grills within highly developed recreation areas and campgrounds that are maintained by a host. In areas where campfires are permitted, visitors should remember to follow proper fire maintenance guidelines by never leaving a campfire unattended and fully extinguishing the campfire with large amounts of water until all of the coals are out cold. In other areas of the National Forests, visitors may use stoves and heating devices solely fueled by liquid or gas and featuring an on/off switch. Whether starting a campfire in a developed site, or using an approved heating device, visitors should never leave a fire unattended.
Violation of Stage 1 fire restrictions can result in a maximum fine of $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
Be sure to visit the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland’s Alerts page to read the fire restrictions orders and find other useful information to help plan your trip.
Allowed Activities Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
- Open fires contained in permanently constructed fire pits or fire grates that the Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Please see the Developed Recreation Sites list that indicates where fires are permitted.
- Liquid or gas fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices with on/off switches on surfaces cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device.
- A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a ¼ inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.
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