El Paso County officials have reinstated Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for unincorporated areas, effective December 31, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The decision follows an assessment of current fire and weather conditions by the county’s Fire Warden and Sheriff, Joseph Roybal.
Sheriff Roybal stated, “With the recent snow totals falling significantly short of the prediction, the responsible decision is to reinstate Stage 1 Restrictions.” He also said, “I will evaluate conditions weekly and reassess the need to keep the restrictions in place, but for the near future, the residents of El Paso County can expect the restrictions to remain in place until moisture levels improve.”
The restrictions prohibit open burning except for fires within permanent grates at developed campgrounds or picnic grounds. Charcoal grills and wood-burning stoves are allowed at private residences if there is a three-foot clearance from flammable materials. The use of fireworks without a professional display permit is banned; however, tonight’s fireworks event by the AdAmAn Club has been authorized by permit.
Other prohibited activities include outdoor smoking unless inside an enclosed vehicle or building or in a cleared area with a minimum three-foot diameter. Welding or using torches with open flames is only permitted in vegetation-cleared zones. Internal combustion engines must have spark-arresting devices installed and working properly. All previously issued permits for prescribed burns are revoked.
Residents are reminded that wildfire risk remains high due to dry conditions common in Pikes Peak communities. Authorities urge vigilance as even small actions—such as discarding lit cigarettes or sparks from chains—can start fires.
More information about fire restrictions can be found on the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office website: https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/services/fire-information
