ARIZONA, USA — Arizona is placing multiple restrictions and bans relating to fire into place Tuesday, according to multiple state agencies.
The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) issued a joint statement on Monday regarding the fire restrictions.
National forests in the state and Maricopa County already put a campfire ban in place earlier this year, but these "Stage 2" restrictions take measures further.
On all BLM- and BOR-administered lands, restrictions include:
- Using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove in any capacity
- (Propane and pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills, or lanterns that include shut-off valves are permitted when used in an area of more than six feet cleared of flammable material such as grass and brush.)
- Smoking outside of an enclosed building
- Welding or using any torch, metal cutting or grinding equipment
- Operating any internal combustion engine, such as a chainsaw or similar power tools
- Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt that adheres to state, federal or tribal laws and regulations
- Using fireworks, exploding targets, and incendiary devices, which are prohibited year-round
The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management listed all previous restrictions for state-owned and managed lands, excluding the complete restriction for operating engine machinery.
Instead, the department listed a restriction for operating any internal combustion engine, chainsaw usage restricted from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., welding or operating acetylene or other torches with open flames, and using explosives.
The agencies stated that any violation of the restrictions could result in "citations, fines, jail time or reimbursement of the cost to put out the fire and rehabilitate the fire area."
You can read the entire official press release here.
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