BLM lifts seasonal fire restrictions in central Arizona

PHOENIX – Effective Thursday, Aug. 22, the Bureau of Land Management will lift all seasonal fire restrictions for public lands administered by the Phoenix District Office, including BLM lands in Maricopa, northern Pinal, western Pima, and Yavapai counties. Due to increased precipitation across the area, additional rain in the weather forecast, and a rise in fuel moistures, it has been determined that the likelihood of wildfire has lessened to the degree that the restrictions can be rescinded. 

The Phoenix District’s recreational shooting sites at Baldy Mountain, Church Camp Road, and Saddleback Mountain will open on Friday, Aug. 23. Additional site maintenance is needed for the Box Canyon site, which will open Labor Day weekend. Updates to shooting site status will be posted on the recreational shooting sites page and on social media. 

Before recreating on public lands, ensure you are aware of fire regulations, restrictions or area closures. 

• Use metal fire rings or grills where present. Wood placed on a fire should never exceed the size of the grill or fire ring. 
• If building a fire on the ground (where permitted), choose a location away from adjoining or overhanging flammable material, and ensure the ground beneath and around the fire is clear of all flammable materials. Avoid fires on windy days if possible.  
• If you have a campfire, make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area. Fires should be doused with water and dirt and stirred with a shovel until completely cold to the touch.  
• If you are using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire. 
• Never throw cigarettes out of the window of a vehicle. Use an ashtray instead.  
• Practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your camping area. 
• Never park over dead grass; a vehicle’s catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation. 
• Use caution while discharging a firearm, operating an internal combustion engine, welding, or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame, or using explosives (where permitted). 

Fireworks and exploding targets are always prohibited on BLM-managed lands in Arizona. 

Fire restrictions may vary by county or jurisdiction depending on the level of fire danger. For information on fire restrictions, prevention tips and restrictions in your area, contact your local BLM office, or visit https://wildlandfire.az.gov.