At noon on Monday, June 29, Clear Creek County hit the switch to Stage 2 fire restrictions, cutting off campfires, fireworks, and most outdoor spark- or flame-producing activities across unincorporated county lands. The temporary order also tightens rules on smoking and off-road vehicle use as officials try to tamp down wildfire risk during an unusually dry stretch in the high country.
According to Clear Creek County, the signed Stage 2 Fire Restriction Order makes the ban effective at 12:00 p.m. MST on Monday and states that it "will remain in effect until superseded or repealed." The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office also shared the order on its Facebook page earlier Monday.
What's banned under Stage 2
Under Stage 2, officials prohibit igniting, building, or attending open fires, including campfires, bonfires, and charcoal grills. The order also bans the sale, possession, or discharge of fireworks. Smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles, trailers, or buildings, and off-road motor-vehicle travel across unincorporated lands is barred except for narrow parking or developed campground exceptions, as outlined by the Clear Creek Fire Authority.
Enforcement and penalties
The signed order requires spark mitigation for work such as chainsaw use and restricts welding or cutting to areas that are cleared at least 30 feet from combustibles. It warns that violators may be charged with fourth-degree arson, reckless endangerment, or unlawful conduct under county ordinance. Deputies earlier this month issued a summons after discovering an illegal slash-pile burn, CBS Colorado reported.
How residents can stay informed
Officials are urging residents and visitors to sign up for emergency alerts through LookoutAlert and to subscribe to the county's fire-ban notification list for updates. The Clear Creek Fire Authority and county pages include guidance on permits, exemptions, and safe practices for chainsaws and welding while the Stage 2 restrictions remain in place.
