By Jennifer Plecki, Dixie National Forest
As of July 27, 2026, the Dixie National Forest will be returning to Stage 1 fire restrictions after remaining in Stage 2 fire restrictions since late June.
Recent precipitation and reduced fire activity has allowed fire managers to lift the Stage 2 restrictions. This decision was made after evaluating fuel moisture levels and firefighting resource availability.
During Stage 1 fire restrictions, the public is encouraged to practice responsible fire safety.
Campfires are only permitted in:
- Permanent, metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas.)
- A device (stove, grill, or firepit) solely fueled by liquid of gas that can be turned on and off, used in an area barren or cleared of flammable materials, including natural materials, within 10 feet of the device.
- A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five (5) feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a ¼ inch or less, used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.
Smoking is only permitted in an enclosed vehicle or building, developed recreation sites, or while in an area at least 10 feet in diameter barren or cleared of flammable materials. Welding, grinding and operating torches with an open flame is only permitted in areas cleared of at least 10 feet in diameter and chemical pressurized fire extinguishers that are a minimum of 8 ounces and a rating of Class 2A and is kept with the operator.
Exploding targets, fireworks, pyrotechnics, blasting, explosives, firing tracer bullets or ammunition, and operating an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arrestor device is prohibited.
Fire managers will continue to monitor conditions and may reinstate restrictions if weather patterns change or fire danger increases. For more information on Dixie National Forest fire restrictions, visit our Alerts webpage at www.fs.usda.gov/r04/dixie/alerts.