State wildlife officials and federal land managers have implemented sweeping fire restrictions across Utah to combat extreme wildfire danger driven by ongoing drought. The measures include a temporary ban on recreational target shooting in 19 counties and the implementation of Stage 2 fire restrictions on all Bureau of Land Management-managed public lands.
Target Shooting Bans in 19 Counties
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) announced July 1, 2026, that it is temporarily restricting recreational target shooting with firearms on wildlife management areas across 19 counties. While the restriction initially covered fewer areas, an update to the announcement confirmed that Rich, Grand, and Utah counties have also approved the temporary restrictions due to wildfire concerns.
DWR Director Riley Peck stated that because wildfires can destroy essential wildlife habitat, these proactive measures are necessary to protect lands that serve as vital winter ranges and feeding grounds for big game animals. Peck noted that while the agency supports responsible target shooting when safe, protecting these resources from extreme fire danger is a priority for hunters and anglers alike.
Scope of Wildlife Area Restrictions
The firearms restriction specifically prohibits target shooting with a firearm or the possession of explosives, incendiary or chemical devices, or exploding targets on wildlife management areas. The ban does not affect the legal possession of a firearm for hunting purposes, nor does it impact fishing activities.
The counties currently under these restrictions include Beaver, Box Elder, Cache, Carbon, Daggett, Duchesne, Emery, Grand, Iron, Juab, Millard, Morgan, Rich, Sanpete, Sevier, Summit, Uintah, Utah, and Wasatch. The DWR noted that the list of participating counties may be updated as coordination with county sheriff's offices continues.
Risks of Human-Caused Wildfires
DWR Habitat Section Chief Eric Edgley emphasized the high risk posed by even small sparks during extreme dry conditions. Edgley pointed to historical precedents, noting that in 2020, two large wildfires on wildlife management areas burned several hundred acres of habitat and were started by firearm target shooting. He also noted that a recent wildfire on the Middle Fork Wildlife Management Area was similarly caused by target shooting.
To mitigate these risks, officials warned that sparks can be generated by metal targets, bullets, or projectiles glancing off rocks. The DWR will re-evaluate the firearms restrictions every two weeks throughout the summer months.
Federal Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
Parallel to the state wildlife restrictions, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions on all BLM-managed public lands in Utah beginning June 26, 2026. These federal restrictions were enacted due to rapidly increasing fire danger.
The BLM prevention order prohibits all open fires of any kind, smoking except within a vehicle or enclosed area, and the grinding, cutting, or welding of metal. Additionally, the order prohibits operating any internal combustion engine unless it has a properly installed and functional spark arresting device.
Ammunition and Explosive Prohibitions
The BLM also issued specific guidance for target shooters on public lands, advising visitors to check ammunition packaging for steel content. Because ammunition containing steel can cause sparks when hitting surfaces, the agency suggests testing bullets with a magnet to identify potential hazards. The agency further warned that orange or red-tipped tracer ammunition can ignite dry grass upon contact.
A statewide fire prevention order (UT914-25-001) remains in effect year-round on all public lands, prohibiting the use of fireworks, explosives, and tracer or incendiary ammunition.
Public Safety and Enforcement
To prevent wildfires, the BLM has issued a list of recommended safety practices for the public. These include fully extinguishing campfires, avoiding target shooting in hot or windy conditions, and ensuring trailer chains are lifted above the ground to prevent sparks from dragging on the pavement. The agency also advised against parking hot vehicles over dry grass and reminded travelers to maintain tires and wheel bearings to prevent mechanical failures.
Law enforcement officers from the Utah Department of Natural Resources will be patrolling wildlife management areas to educate and enforce the shooting restrictions. Violators could face fines of up to $1,000.
Reporting Violations and Alternatives
For those seeking legal target shooting options, the DWR highlighted that the Lee Kay and Cache Valley public shooting ranges remain available. Residents can also utilize various private and public indoor and outdoor ranges throughout the state.
Citizens are encouraged to report any sightings of fireworks or illegal target shooting by calling the UTIP hotline at 800-662-3337 or texting 847411. For statewide fire information, officials direct the public to Utahfireinfo.gov.
