Utah enforces stage two fire restrictions state-wide, banning open flames

UTAH (ABC4) — Utah has moved to stage two fire restrictions across the state, which bans open flames on state lands, among other restrictions.

As of July 31, 2025, Utah State is facing stage 2 fire restrictions. According to Utah Code 65A-8-212, the Utah State government can enforce restrictions on open flames and activities that could potentially start fires, when extremely hazardous conditions exist.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions bans open fires of any kind on all state lands and all unincorporated private lands within the state of Utah. Any devices using pressurized liquid or gas fuels, including grills or lanterns, can only be used at least 3 feet away from flammable material, according to Utah Fire Info.

Additionally, Stage 2 restrictions prohibit anything restricted under stage 1 restrictions. Those restrictions are:

• No open fires of any kind except within established public facilities in improved campgrounds, picnic areas -OR- In permanently constructed fire pits at private homes where running water is present.
• No 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.
• No fireworks, tracer ammunition or other pyrotechnic devices including exploding targets.
• No cutting, welding or grinding metal in areas of dry vegetation.
• No operating a motorcycle, chainsaw, ATV, or other small internal combustion engine without an approved and working spark arrestor.

Jordanelle State Park is just one of the places with Stage 2 fire restrictions. Kelly Bird, with Unified Fire Authority, said, “It will impact some of the recreation things we like to do. But it’s important we follow them, because of all the fires in the southern part of the state, and they want to get a handle on it the last thing we need is a new spark to take away from the resources.”

Scott Fielding, a general contractor in Park City, thinks these restrictions are going to make it even more difficult for his work. He says, “You can’t use a chainsaw or welding or cutting medal, and that does affect me in my line of work.”

Additionally, the weather has made it difficult for Fielding.

“It’s extremely dry right now, we have to rent a unit on the fire hydrants so we can make everything wet and so we don’t cause fires and mitigate the dust,” Fielding said, who uses chainsaws and welding equipment almost every day, “We need to be more careful and do stuff indoors before we bring it outdoors.”  

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources stated that if you do not comply with the Stage Two restrictions, this is considered a Class B misdemeanor, and you could face up to six months in jail or a fine of $1,000. 

While restrictions may vary between different areas, incorporated cities and towns are exempt. Fire officials urge you to check with your local fire departments.