Current Fire Restrictions:

Fire Restrictions are LIFTED - September 21st, 2026

Effective September 21 at noon., all Fire Restrictions have been lifted within unincorporated Chaffee County, including the municipalities (Salida, Buena Vista, Poncha Springs).

 

The South Arkansas Fire Protection District encourages all residents and visitors to use caution with outdoor activities that could create sparks or heat. Even a small ignition can quickly become a wildfire under dry conditions.

We appreciate everyone's cooperation in helping reduce wildfire risk and keep our community safe.

Under Stage I Fire Restrictions, the following are prohibited  within unincorporated Chaffee and Fremont County:

• Igniting, building, maintaining, or using any open flame fire — including campfires — except within designated fire grates in developed campgrounds or picnic areas.

• Outdoor smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, at a developed recreation site, or in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren of flammable materials.

• Use of fireworks or pyrotechnic devices of any kind.

• Welding or operating an acetylene or similar torch with an open flame, unless in a cleared area with firefighting equipment present.

• Operating any internal combustion engine without a properly installed and functioning spark arrestor.

 

Fremont County:  Downgraded to Stage 1 Fire Restriction 

On August 18th, 2026, Fremont County downgraded to Stage 1  fire restrictions.

Sourced via CRIMEWATCH®: https://crimewatch.net/us/co/fremont/sheriff/180579/content/fire-ban-status

 

NEW UPDATE:

As of March 27, 2026, Stage I Fire Restrictions have now been expanded to include ALL National Forest System lands, roads, and trails, as well as all designated dispersed campsites within the exterior boundaries of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, ALWAYS DIAL 911

Even if you're unsure, don't hesitate to report it. Dial 911 to notify local fire and emergency response teams. Every second counts when it comes to wildfire detection and response.

📌 Residents and visitors are strongly urged to review local ordinances, plan ahead, and exercise extra caution to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires.

📞 If you see smoke or signs of fire — CALL 911 immediately.

Chaffee County Sherriff's Office and the South Arkansas Fire Protection District may implement temporary fire restrictions based on fire danger, weather conditions, and fuel moisture levels.