CONTACT: Annie Bierbower; Poudre Fire Authority Public Information Officer; pfamedia@poudre-fire.org; 970-658-5502

Stage 1 fire restrictions will take effect in the City of Fort Collins and parts of Larimer County on Wednesday, March 25, due to increased fire danger across the region.

The restrictions were recommended by Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) Fire Chief Derek Bergsten in alignment with Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen who recommended fire restrictions for unincorporated Larimer County below 9,000 ft. The Larimer Board of County Commissioners voted to adopt these restrictions.

 The City’s order supports (not replaces) county and state fire restrictions.

“Aligning with Larimer County helps ensure consistent messaging for residents and strengthens our ability to reduce fire risk,” said Chief Bergsten. “These restrictions are tools to help us all work together and protect our community during this time of elevated risk.”

City Manager Kelly DiMartino said the decision reflects current conditions and guidance from fire officials.

“These restrictions are important to protect public safety and match efforts in neighboring areas,” DiMartino said.

Why Restrictions are in Place:

Recent conditions have increased wildfire risk, including:

• Active fires in the region and recent Red Flag wind events including a fire north of Fort Collins during 90 mph winds
• Severe drought across Larimer County
• Below-average snowpack

What Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Mean:

Stage 1 is not a fire ban. It limits certain activities that could start a fire.

Not allowed:

• Campfires, warming fires, and most open burning
• Fireworks and explosives
• Open discarding of smoking materials
• Using equipment like chainsaws without spark arresters
• Using incendiary devices or other explosives and the burning of explosive waste
• Operating any pest control equipment that relies upon the ignition of flammable gases or liquids

Types of Burning/Fires Allowed with Precautions:

• Gas or liquid-fueled grills, fire pits, and stoves
• Fires in approved containers using clean, dry wood or charcoal
• Smoking only in cleared or enclosed areas (such as a vehicle or building)
• Welding with proper safety measures
• Fires specifically authorized by a permit issued by Larimer County and approved by the Fire Code Official (the Fire Chief of PFA)

Officials remind residents that even when restrictions are not in place, burning may be suspended on high-risk days.

Stay Fire Aware

Residents are encouraged to use caution with any activity that could spark a fire and stay up to date on local conditions.

How to Report Fire Restriction Violations

PFA asks for your help keeping 911 reserved for emergencies. In terms of fire, that means when you see real, active flames.

If you see someone or something that may be violating these fire restrictions (such as a power tool that is causing a spark) and potentially creating the risk for a fire, call:

• Fort Collins Police Non-emergency phone line at 970-419-3273
• Larimer County Sheriff's Office Non-emergency: 970-416-1985

You can also make an online report about a non-emergency crime or lost property here. 

For more information on fire restrictions in place in the region go to Northern Colorado Fire Restrictions and Bans webpage which links to agencies in the area that issue restrictions and burn permits.

Read the City of Fort Collins' Administrative Order Implementing Stage 1 Fire Restrictions here. 

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