Colorado Burn Ban & Fire Restriction Laws (2026)

Colorado's fire restriction system is more complex than most states because it involves multiple overlapping authorities — county, state, and federal — that can each issue their own restrictions independently. Understanding which restrictions apply to where you are is critical before lighting any fire.

Check Current Restrictions

Colorado Fire Restrictions Map ↗ Colorado State Forest Service ↗

Colorado's Three Levels of Fire Restrictions

Stage 1 Restrictions

Campfires only in designated fire rings with a grate. No open fires outside of developed campgrounds. Charcoal and gas grills allowed. No fireworks.

Stage 2 Restrictions

No campfires anywhere, including developed campgrounds. No charcoal grills. Gas grills allowed. No smoking except in enclosed vehicles. No fireworks.

Stage 3 Restrictions (Total Closure)

Area closed to all public entry. No fires of any kind. Issued only during extreme fire danger conditions.

Penalties for Violating Colorado Fire Restrictions

Violation Penalty Statute
Violating county burn ban Class 1 Misdemeanor: up to 364 days jail, $1,000 fine C.R.S. 30-15-401
Violating USFS fire restriction Federal misdemeanor: up to $5,000, 6 months jail 36 CFR 261.52
Starting a wildfire through negligence Civil liability for all suppression costs + property damage C.R.S. 23-31-308

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has the authority to declare a burn ban in Colorado?
Colorado has multiple authorities that can issue fire restrictions. County commissioners can declare burn bans for unincorporated county areas. The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) can issue restrictions for state responsibility areas. The U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service can issue restrictions for federal land. During extreme conditions, the Governor can issue a statewide fire restriction.
What are the penalties for violating a Colorado fire restriction?
Violating a county burn ban in Colorado is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor under C.R.S. 30-15-401, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Violating a U.S. Forest Service fire restriction is a federal misdemeanor under 36 CFR 261.52, punishable by up to $5,000 and 6 months in jail. Civil liability for suppression costs can be enormous.
How do I check current fire restrictions in Colorado?
The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control maintains a fire restrictions map at colorado.gov/dfs. The Colorado State Forest Service also maintains information at csfs.colostate.edu. For federal land restrictions, check the specific agency (USFS, BLM, NPS) for the area you plan to visit.
When are fire restrictions most common in Colorado?
Colorado fire restrictions are most common from late spring through early fall (May–September), with peak risk in June and July before the monsoon season begins. The Front Range, Western Slope, and mountain communities are most frequently affected. The 2020 and 2021 fire seasons were historically severe, and conditions remain elevated in many areas.

Other State Burn Ban Guides

→ Texas Burn Ban Guide → Oregon Burn Ban Guide → Montana Burn Ban Guide → All States: Burn Ban Overview