05/13/2026
Sheriff Roybal Downgrades Fire Restrictions for El Paso County to Stage I
After a thorough review of current fire danger conditions and consideration of the El Paso County Wildland Fire Restriction Evaluation Guidelines, Sheriff and Fire Warden Joseph Roybal has downgraded the status for El Paso County from Stage II (implemented on February 16, 2026) to Stage I Fire Restrictions, effective today at 12 PM, for all unincorporated areas of El Paso County.
“Due to recent improvements in weather conditions, including increased moisture and more favorable forecasts in the Pikes Peak region, we are in a position to safely downgrade from Stage II to Stage I Fire Restrictions,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal.
“Vegetation green-up reduces the flash risk of immediate spread of wildfire. While these conditions are encouraging, wildfire risk remains, and continued vigilance is essential.
“This decision was made in close collaboration with local district fire chiefs to ensure conditions across our region support a measured reduction in restrictions while still prioritizing public safety.
“As we transition to Stage I restrictions, I ask for the community’s continued cooperation in following all guidelines and practicing responsible recreation across Colorado’s outdoor spaces.
“By working together, we can build on these improved conditions, reduce wildfire risk, and continue protecting our community.”
Stage I Fire Restrictions
PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
The following activities are strictly prohibited while Stage I restrictions are in effect:
1. Open Burning: All general open burning is banned. Any previously issued open burn permits are hereby revoked.
2. Fireworks: The sale and use of fireworks are prohibited.
3. Model Rockets: The launching of model rockets is prohibited.
4. Explosives: Use of explosive targets or any other outdoor pyrotechnics is prohibited.
5. Unprotected Engines: Operating any internal combustion engine without a properly installed and working spark-arresting device is prohibited.
PERMITTED ACTIVITIES
The following activities are allowed ONLY if the specific safety requirements are met:
1. Campfires & Cooking
a. Developed Areas: Campfires and fires are permitted only within permanently constructed fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds.
b. Private Residences: Charcoal grills and wood-burning stoves are permitted at private residences, provided the area is cleared of all flammable materials for a 3-foot radius.
c. Gas/Liquid Appliances: Use of stoves, fire pits, or appliances fueled by liquid petroleum (LPG), natural gas, or liquid fuel is allowed.
2. Outdoor Smoking
a. Smoking is permitted only within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter which is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
3. Outdoor Welding & Torch Operations
a. Welding or operating an acetylene (or similar) torch with an open flame is allowed only if performed in an area cleared of all vegetation and flammable materials.
Updated restrictions take effect today, May 12, 2026, at 12 PM, and will remain in place until modified pursuant to El Paso County Ordinance #22-001.
Sheriff Roybal will continue to review weather and fire-danger conditions and notify the community of any changes to restrictions as appropriate.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents and visitors to the Pikes Peak region to comply with the Order and share responsibility for keeping our community safe. Public cooperation plays a critical role in preventing potential fire hazards.
For updates on fire restrictions and guidelines, visit:
https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/services/fire-information
Suspected violations of the Order should be reported by calling 719-390-5555.
