Stage 1 fire restrictions issued statewide across Utah

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A Stage 1 Fire Restriction Order has been issued across Utah, according to the Dept. of Natural Resources.

The State Forester has determined that current and forecasted weather conditions, along with “record dry vegetation conditions and extreme fire danger” in the state, require a Stage 1 Fire Restriction.

“Measures must be taken to prevent the ignition of forest and rangeland fires,” the order states.

The following acts are prohibited under the order, according to Utah State Law:

1. No open fires of any kind except within established facilities in improved campgrounds or day-use areas on public lands. -OR- in permanently constructed fire pits at permanent private dwellings served by pressurized running water.
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, trailer or building, a developed recreation site
   or while stopped in an area that is paved or free from dry vegetation.
3. Cutting, welding or grinding metal in areas of dry vegetation.
4. Operating a motorcycle, chainsaw, ATV, or other small internal combustion engine without
   an approved and working spark arrestor.
5. Discharging or using fireworks, tracer ammunition, or other pyrotechnic devices, including
   exploding targets.

This fire restriction will remain in effect until rescinded. This applies to all state lands and all unincorporated private lands within the state of Utah. This order does not affect private lands within incorporated towns or city limits.

Any of the above acts is a violation of state law and is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. County law enforcement will enforce these restrictions.

Persons with a permit or waiver issued by the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands specifically authorizing a specified act at a specific location are exempt. A waiver does not relieve the permittee of liability if a fire does occur.

Additionally, any on-duty firefighter in the performance of an official duty is exempt.