The Office of the State Forester says fire and smoking restrictions will be implemented this week on state lands.
This is in cooperation with the Tonto National Forest, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other state, Federal and local government entities.
They say the restrictions have become necessary due to hot, dry weather and annual plant growth which contribute to the risk of major wildfires.
The restrictions go into effect Thursday starting at 12 p.m.
The restrictions will apply to all State Trust Lands within Maricopa, Gila, Yuma, La Paz, Pinal and Yavapai Counties, and will remain in effect until July 31 or until further notice.
Fire Restrictions include:
- Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
- Using fireworks as defined in ARS ยง 36-1601 is prohibited.
- Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
- Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department and holders of hunting and fishing licenses. Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.
