SPRINGDALE, Washington County — Zion National Park implemented new fire restrictions ahead of the busy Memorial Day weekend, citing increasing fire danger across southwest Utah.
Context for new fire restrictions
It follows new restrictions implemented at other federal lands within southwest Utah and northern Arizona, as well as unincorporated land within Washington County, all of which went into effect on Friday. They are Utah's first restrictions of this year, following a record-low statewide snowpack.
“Dry conditions are increasing across the region, and these restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires in Zion,” said Jeff Bradybaugh, the park's superintendent, in a statement.
Details on Stage 2 prohibitions
Zion returned to Stage 2 fire restrictions, prohibiting any campfires or open fires of any kind at most areas within the park, including at the Watchman Campground, South Campground or picnic areas in Zion Canyon.
Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle, a developed recreation site or areas clear of vegetation at least 3 feet in diameter, as well. The measure also prohibits anyone from discharging fireworks, but that is already illegal in the park and on federal lands.
Exceptions and permitted cooking methods
Campers at Lava Point Campground can still have fires within established fire rings. Cook stoves fueled by petroleum or liquid propane gas are also allowed.
Penalties for violating restrictions
Violation of the new restrictions can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail.
BLM Stage 1 restriction details
The measure was enacted after Stage 1 restrictions were reinstated in areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management in Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, and Washington counties, including Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
That prohibits any open fires or campfires that use solid or “ash-producing” fuels, as well as smoking, except within a vehicle or an enclosed area. Grinding, cutting or welding of metal is also prohibited, while devices fueled by pressurized liquid or gas with a shut-off valve are permitted as long as there is at least a 3-foot diameter away from any vegetation.
Campfires within permanently constructed cement or metal fire pits are also allowed.
Washington County and drought status
Washington County ordered similar restrictions for its unincorporated areas to align with other agencies.
Most of the five counties are listed as being in severe or extreme drought, matching the rest of the state, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Zion typically returns to Stage 2 when the Bureau of Land Management issues a Stage 1 order, said Matthew Fink, a spokesman for Zion National Park.
“We all know it's especially dry right now and hot, so I would say it's expected for what we've seen this year,” he said.
Utah is coming off its most destructive fire year since 2020. Over 1,150 fires scorched more than 160,000 acres statewide, destroying dozens of homes and other structures in 2025.
We need to do all that we can to protect this beautiful place — the staff, the visitors in it — by following these fire restrictions.
–Matthew Fink, spokesman for Zion National Park
The Beehive State wasn't alone in its struggles. Fires ravaged the West, including a pair that burned more than 200,000 acres in and around Grand Canyon National Park's North Rim. The Dragon Bravo Fire, which was sparked by lightning, also destroyed many of the park's historic buildings.
It was a sobering reminder of the threat at hand across the West's cherished public lands, Fink said.
“We do ask visitors to keep that in mind when they're coming to recreate here,” he said. “We need to do all that we can to protect this beautiful place — the staff, the visitors in it — by following these fire restrictions.”
Zion attracted nearly 5 million visits last year. Its 1.3 million visits through the first four months of this year put it on pace for its busiest year on record. Memorial Day itself is a “fee-free day,” which usually attracts more crowds, as well.
In addition to the new fire restrictions, Fink added that visitors should be prepared for longer lines this weekend.
Utah leaders have urged people to be careful when recreating elsewhere in the state because of the dry conditions.
“We ask that you use extreme caution when recreating or engaging in any activity that can produce a spark,” Gov. Spencer Cox said on Wednesday. “As temperatures rise and more people head outdoors, your awareness really is the best line of defense.”
Related: Zion National Park to implement large vehicle restrictions
