Stage 1 fire restrictions remain in effect for the unincorporated areas of Beaver County as of Sept. 15, 2026, due to extremely dry vegetation and forecasted weather conditions in Southwest Utah. The order, issued by the State Forester in consultation with the county commission, aims to prevent the ignition of forest or rangeland fires.
Current Fire Restrictions
The Beaver County website announced on Sept. 15, 2026, that the fire restriction order has been in effect since 12:01 a.m. on June 5, 2026. The State Forester determined that these measures were necessary under Utah State Law, Section 65A-8-212, because of current and forecasted weather conditions combined with extremely dry vegetation throughout the region.
Prohibited Activities
Under the Stage 1 restrictions, open fires are prohibited in the unincorporated areas of Beaver County, with specific exceptions. Allowed fires are limited to those occurring in approved fire rings or grills at developed campgrounds or day-use areas on public lands that feature a pressurized running water system. Additionally, fires are permitted in permanently constructed fire pits at private residences, provided those residences also have a pressurized water system.
The order includes several other strict prohibitions to mitigate fire risks. Smoking is prohibited unless the individual is within an enclosed vehicle, trailer, or building, at a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area that is paved or free from dry vegetation. The use of fireworks, tracer ammunition, or other pyrotechnic devices, including exploding targets, is also strictly forbidden.
The restrictions also extend to industrial and recreational activities that could spark a fire. Cutting, welding, or grinding metal is prohibited in areas containing dry vegetation. Furthermore, operating a motorcycle, chainsaw, ATV, or any other small internal combustion engine is banned unless the equipment is equipped with an approved and working spark arrestor.
Scope of the Order
The current restrictions apply specifically to unincorporated areas of Beaver County and do not affect private lands located within the limits of incorporated towns or cities. The order remains in effect until it is officially rescinded by the Utah State Forester.
Enforcement and Penalties
Violations of these restrictions are considered a violation of state law. Individuals found in breach of the order may face legal consequences, including a fine of up to $1,000 and a jail sentence of up to six months. County law enforcement is responsible for enforcing these regulations.
Exemptions to Restrictions
Certain individuals are exempt from these prohibitions, specifically those holding a permit or waiver issued by the Division that authorizes a specific act at a specific location. However, the State Forester noted that having a waiver does not relieve a permittee of liability if a fire occurs. Additionally, on-duty firefighters are exempt from these restrictions while performing official duties.
