Fire Safety

Fire Restriction Guide 

Burn Restrictions:

Please refer to the burn Restriction Chart for permitted activities during fire restrictions:

To see daily fire danger, burn ban or burn restriction Fire Information | El Paso County Sheriff

 

Fire restriction guide listing activities allowed under Stage I and Stage II burn restrictions, with specific conditions.

 

***Burning trash and yard waste is NOT allowed at any time.***

 

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office implements county-wide burn restrictions based on current fire danger as indicated by weather and fire fuels.  

Recreational Fires 

Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Fireplaces and Recreational Fires

Outdoor Cooking - When operating outdoor BBQ grills powered by wood, pellets, charcoal, propane, natural gas, or other liquid fuels, maintain a minimum clearance of 10 feet from any combustible structures, fences, or vegetation. This requirement does not apply to residents of single-family homes or duplexes.  

The image showcases three outdoor cooking scenes: grilling, spit-roasting, and a pot over a fire, all set in a warm, sunset ambiance.

          

Outdoor Fireplace - Any outdoor fire contained within a portable or permanent fireplace or appliance is permitted. Residents of single-family homes or duplexes may use portable outdoor fireplaces without a minimum distance requirement from their own structure or combustible materials. However, these fires must be kept at least 15 feet away from neighboring structures or combustible items, including trees, bushes, or shared fences.

The image shows three outdoor fire features: a linear fire pit, a modern fireplace, and a stone fireplace, with people enjoying the setting.

          

Recreational Fires - Any outdoor fire contained within a permanent or portable fireplace or approved appliance is allowed. Residents of single-family homes or duplexes may operate portable outdoor fireplaces on their property without a minimum setback from their own structure or combustible materials. However, all fires must remain at least 15 feet from any neighboring structures or combustible objects such as trees, shrubs, or shared fences. Only untreated natural wood is permitted for burning. 

The images show a group of people around a fire pit in a backyard setting and a second fire pit surrounded by trees at sunset.

                   

El Paso County Guidelines 

·         Do not burn household trash, treated or painted wood, construction materials, or any yard debris such as tumbleweeds, grass, or dry vegetation. 

·         Flame height must not exceed 36 inches. 

·         Fire must be attended by a responsible adult. 

·         A water source (hose, bucket, extinguisher) must be nearby. 

Safety & Restrictions 

·         🚫 Do Not Burn During: 

1.       Red Flag Warnings 

2.       Fire bans or high/extreme fire danger days 

3.       Sustained winds > 10 MPH 

·         ✅ Always: 

1.       Notify your local fire department before burning 

2.       Check for current fire restrictions 

3.       Extinguish fire completely before leaving 

Resources & Contact Information 

·         Security Fire Protection District 

·         📞 Non-Emergency Line: 719-392-3271 

·         🌐 Website: www.securityfiredept.org 

·         📍 Address: 7600 Wayfarer Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80925 

·         El Paso County Fire Info: https://www.elpasocountyhealth.org/licenses-permits-inspections-water-testing/open-burning-el-paso-county 

Residential fire pits/recreational fires no longer require a burn permit, however must be located/conducted in accordance with our safety guidlines and burn restrictions. We offer courtesy inspections of your fire pit to help ensure safety. Call use at 719-392-3271.