Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Beginning Friday June 26 – Custer County

After consultation with the Wet Mountain Fire Protection District Fire Chief, the National Weather Service and a thorough review of current fire danger conditions, Sheriff and Fire Warden Rich Smith has implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions for Custer County, effective on Friday June 26, 2026.

Under Stage I Fire Restrictions, the following activities are prohibited by statute:

• Open burning, Charcoal Grill, Bonfires, Camp fires, Portable outdoor fireplaces, and Fire Pits
• Sky Lanterns
• Trash burning
• Use of fireworks, explosive targets, model rockets, or any outdoor pyrotechnics without a professional display permit.
• Outdoor smoking, except:
  • Inside an enclosed vehicle or building
  • Within a developed recreation site
  • While stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials
• Welding or operating acetylene or similar torches with an open flame
• Operation of internal combustion engines without a properly installed and functioning spark arrestor.
• Prescribed burns
  (Any previously issued permits are now revoked.)

The following activities are permitted:

• Gas stove, gas grill, gas lantern
• Official Fire Suppression by Fire agencies
• Fire Department Training

These restrictions will remain in effect until modified as specified in Custer County Resolution 18-17.

Stay Informed and Prepared

For updates, visit:
Custer County Sheriff's Office Website

To sign up for Everbridge emergency alerts (cell phone, landline, text, or email), use the link below:
Sign up or update Everbridge contact info

Know your neighborhood's fire evacuation route:
View Fire Evacuation Routes (PDF)