Fire Restrictions Expand to Entire San Juan National Forest

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Go Into Effect Forest‑wide June 12

Durango, CO — June 10, 2026

Based on recent wildfire activity and persistent severe fire weather conditions, San Juan National Forest fire management staff will expand Stage 1 Fire Restrictions to include the entire San Juan National Forest, including high‑elevation areas, beginning at 12:01 a.m., June 12. Lower elevations entered Stage 1 restrictions on May 22; now these same restrictions will apply Forest‑wide.

Southwest Colorado is experiencing extended drought with continued hot, dry, and windy weather creating a critical fire environment. Current conditions present “Severe Fire Weather Potential,” meaning new fires could exhibit extreme behavior and rapid growth. Past regional fires that grew significantly under similar conditions include the West Fork Fire, Papoose Fire, and 416 Fire.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on the San Juan National Forest PROHIBIT:

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including charcoal or briquette fires), except in:
   • A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate installed and maintained by the U.S. Forest Service at developed recreation sites;
   • A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off, used in an area cleared of flammable materials within three feet;
   • A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet tall and a mesh spark arrestor (¼‑inch or smaller openings), used in an area cleared of flammable materials within 10 feet.

   36 CFR § 261.52(a)

2. Using an explosive. 36 CFR § 261.52(b)
3. Smoking, except inside an enclosed vehicle or building, or at a developed recreation site. 36 CFR § 261.52(d)
4. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame, except in a cleared area at least 10 feet in diameter with a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (minimum 8 oz., Class 2A rating) on hand. 36 CFR § 261.52(h)

These temporary restrictions will remain in place until further notice and may be adjusted as conditions change. For more information on fire restrictions, fuels management, and wildfire resources, visit the San Juan National Forest fire information webpage:
Fire Information Webpage

Neighboring federal, state, and local agencies are also entering fire restrictions. Statewide information is available from the Colorado Department of Public Safety:
Colorado Fire Restrictions

Fire restrictions do not prevent wildfires—you do. So far this year, 28 abandoned campfires have been found on the San Juan National Forest. Fire prevention and law enforcement staff will be patrolling, and violations of Stage 1 restrictions will result in citations.

To report a fire: Call 9‑1‑1.
For information: Call (970) 247‑4874 or visit the San Juan National Forest website. Follow the Forest on Facebook for updates.