Southeastern Utah is experiencing hazardous fire conditions resulting from prolonged drought and extremely dry vegetation. As a consequence, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Natural Bridges National Monument are implementing increased fire restrictions starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026.
Under the new restrictions, no open fires of any kind may be set, built, maintained, attended, or used. The use of propane and petroleum-fueled grills and stoves is permitted only within developed campgrounds, picnic areas, along the river corridor, and in designated backcountry campsites and zones, provided they are cleared of all flammable materials for at least 3 feet in diameter.
Smoking is prohibited except when inside an enclosed vehicle or in paved areas that are completely devoid of nearby vegetation. Additionally, cigarette butts must be placed in ashtrays. The use or discharge of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices remains prohibited at all times on all federal public lands.
Activities such as grinding, cutting, or welding metal are not allowed in areas containing dry vegetation. Furthermore, any internal or external combustion engines must be operated with a properly installed, maintained, and effective spark arresting device.
To assist in wildfire prevention, officials recommend staying on established trails and roads to avoid dry vegetation, ensuring trailer chains do not drag or create sparks, and fully extinguishing campfires. For further information regarding fire prevention, wildfires, and fuels treatment projects, visitors can visit utahfireinfo.gov.
