FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 5, 2025
Contact: Moffat County Sheriff’s Office
Phone: 970-824-4495
Email: nicholascordova@sheriff.moffat.co.us

Moffat County, CO – In response to increasing fire danger and persistent dry conditions, Moffat County Sheriff Chip McIntyre, under the authority of Moffat County Ordinance No. 2023-0822, in coordination with the Little Snake Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Dinosaur National Monument (NPS), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) at Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is enacting Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. These restrictions will take effect on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 12:01 a.m., and will apply to all unincorporated private, state, Little Snake BLM, Dinosaur National Monument, and USFWS Browns Park Refuge lands within Moffat County.

Prohibited Activities Under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions

In addition to all Stage 1 restrictions, the following activities are strictly prohibited:

1. Open flames and fires – Including campfires, charcoal grills, coal or wood stove fires, even in developed campgrounds and picnic areas.
   Only devices using pressurized liquid or gas are permitted.
2. Smoking – Only allowed inside enclosed vehicles, buildings, trailers, or tents.
3. Explosives and fireworks – Including use of any explosive device requiring a fuse or blasting cap, fireworks, rockets, exploding targets, tracer rounds, or incendiary ammunition.
4. Open flame tools – Welding or use of acetylene or other torches with open flames.
5. Internal combustion engines – Must be equipped with properly installed and maintained spark arresters.
6. Chainsaw use – Operators must carry:
   • A chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (minimum 8 oz. capacity by weight).
   • A size 0 or larger round-pointed shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches.
   • The fire extinguisher must be with the operator; the shovel may be stored with fuel supplies but must be readily accessible.

Additional Safety Recommendations

• Avoid parking in tall, dry grass.
• Use functional spark arresters on off-highway vehicles.
• Inspect trailer chains to ensure they are not dragging and creating sparks.

These restrictions will remain in place until rescinded. Residents and visitors are urged to comply fully to help safeguard lives, property, and our public lands.

“The wildfire threat is real and growing during this dry period,” said Sheriff McIntyre. “Your cooperation is crucial in protecting our community and natural resources.”

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Violating Stage 2 restrictions may result in fines up to $600.
• If a fire escapes due to negligence, individuals may face criminal charges, including fines up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months.

For updates and additional information, please visit the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office website or follow local fire agency social media pages.

Stay vigilant. Stay safe. Prevent wildfires.

Bureau of Land Management - Fire Restrictions

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