The Bureau of Land Management Monticello Field Office has implemented a fire prevention order for several BLM-managed lands due to the Babylon Fire. The order, identified as UT-CYD-2026-02-Amended, Partial Rescission, was issued on July 16, 2026, to ensure public safety and facilitate suppression efforts.
The closure affects all BLM-managed lands located west of Harts Draw Road and south of State Route 211. This includes the Shay Mesa area and extends west into Beef Basin, Dark Canyon, and Sweet Alice, as well as Brushy Basin Road north to the Forest Service Boundary and Peter’s Point.
While the order maintains closures in these areas, the BLM is restoring access to public lands located north of State Route 211.
Under the order, entry on roads, trails, or cross-country travel within the designated closure areas is prohibited unless written permission is granted by an authorized officer.
Exemptions from this order include federal, state, and local officers performing official duties, members of organized rescue or firefighting forces in the performance of their duties, and individuals with written authorization from the BLM. Additionally, activities conducted under contract with the BLM, agency personnel monitoring the event, or activities under an approved plan of operations are exempt.
Violations of this Fire Prevention Order may result in civil liability or criminal prosecution. Under applicable law, violations may be classified as a Class A Misdemeanor Offense, with potential fines of up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months. The responsible party will also bear the liability for total fire suppression and damage costs. The order remains in effect until it is rescinded.
