FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County will be entering Stage 3 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, June 23, in coordination with the Kaibab and Coconino National Forest closures. This ordinance applies on County public lands, as well as private lands in the unincorporated areas of the County.

“In coordination with our regional partners and to mitigate the catastrophic damage of wildfire, Coconino County is enacting Stage 3 Fire Restrictions,” said Chairman of the Board Matt Ryan. “With this very active wildfire season, this move is the right decision. We need everyone to abide by these restrictions and appreciate everyone’s cooperation.”

A Stage 3 exemption allows for combustion, open fire, and campfire only when:

• Persons with a written permit or variance.
• For personal use of cigarette or other tobacco smoking medium when used inside an enclosed vehicle only.
• For emergency repair of public utilities and railroads and other health and safety mitigation measures when operated by a public utility or railroad and implemented in accordance with an approved agency plan.
• By any federal, state, or local officer or member of an organized rescue or firefighting entity in the performance of an official duty.

Unless allowed by an exception above, there are no outdoor activities that allow for open fire, campfire, fireworks, and combustion events.

While activities that involve mechanical operations, such as lawn care, home construction, and community clean-ups are not specifically prohibited, residents and visitors should use their best judgment when considering whether to engage in any activity that could spark a fire. Anyone engaging in these activities could be held legally responsible.

Interested persons can view all current fire restrictions in Coconino County at coconino.az.gov/firerestrictions.