Stage 2 Fire Ban: What is Prohibited Vs. Still Allowed?

From the Jefferson County Sheriff:

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Wildland Fire Management Team, in conjunction with other fire partners and neighboring counties, continuously monitors weather, soil, and vegetation conditions to assess overall fire risk. When conditions warrant, the county enacts Stage 1 or Stage 2 restrictions and lifts them as conditions improve. Jefferson County Parks and Open Space (including South Table Mountain) as well as Denver Mountain Parks lands are always in Stage 2 Fire Ban.

During declared fire restrictions (Stage 1 or Stage 2), the use of all fireworks — including normally permissible ones like sparklers and fountains — is entirely prohibited. Violations can be subject to a fine of up to $600 per violation.

Jeffco is currently under a Stage 2 Fire Ban. This means the following is NOT ALLOWED:

• ALL fires & campfires — no exceptions for grates or fire pits

• Open burning, bonfires & trash/debris burns

• Charcoal grills

• Chimineas, wood-burning fire pits & portable outdoor fireplaces

• Fireworks — use of ALL fireworks, including "permissible" ones

• Sky lanterns

• Smoking, except in enclosed buildings/vehicles, recreation sites, or barren 6-foot clearings

• Tracer rounds or explosive-type targets

• Explosive initiation systems requiring a burning fuse line

• Chain saws without an approved spark arrester, extinguisher & shovel

• Welding & cutting torches without a fire-authority permit and 30-foot barren clearance

During a Stage 2 Fire Ban, the following gas and liquid-fueled devices are still allowed:

• Gas fire pits, grills, lanterns & stoves

• Camp stoves (liquid or gas fueled)

• Professional fireworks displays — with permit only

You can find the most current fire restrictions on the Jeffco Sheriff’s website.