Mesa County, Colo. — Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will take effect throughout Mesa County. The order, issued jointly by the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and fire chiefs from all municipal and special-district departments county-wide, covers every part of the county—including BLM land and the White River National Forest.
The decision follows weeks of persistently hot, dry weather and vegetation moisture readings that indicate an elevated fire risk. Although the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests are not entering restrictions at this time, county officials urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and follow all safety guidelines, noting that “one spark under current conditions can ignite a fast-moving wildfire.”
What’s Prohibited Under Stage 1
- Personal fireworks
- Campfires outside designated fire pits or rings
- Agricultural open burning without a Sheriff-issued permit
- Explosive targets for recreational shooting
- Smoking in areas where flammable material is present
- Chainsaw or other engine use without a working spark-arrestor
- Welding or torch work outside a 10-foot cleared area without a pressurized chemical fire extinguisher nearby
Officials also reminded the public that less-obvious hazards—such as trailer chains sparking on pavement, vehicles idling in tall grass, or careless cigarette disposal—can just as easily set off a blaze.
Staying Informed
For real-time updates, residents can consult the Interactive Fire Restrictions Map on the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office website. Those planning to recreate on U.S. Forest Service lands should confirm the latest rules at the USDA Forest Service site, as restrictions can vary by jurisdiction.
“Community cooperation is critical,” the Sheriff’s Office said in its announcement, urging everyone to verify that campfires are completely extinguished and to report any signs of smoke immediately. Violations of Stage 1 restrictions may result in fines and restitution for suppression costs.
With the Independence Day holiday approaching, authorities emphasized that fireworks remain illegal under Stage 1 and asked the public to attend professional displays instead.