Estes Valley Implements Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

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The Estes Valley Fire Protection District has announced the implementation of Stage 1 fire restrictions starting on March 19, 2026. The restrictions prohibit certain types of open burning, such as recreational wood fires and pile burning, in an effort to reduce the likelihood of human-caused fires and align with safety measures in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.

Why it matters

The current dry conditions and ongoing fire danger in the Estes Valley region have prompted these precautionary measures to protect both residents and visitors. Fire officials will closely monitor the situation and may adjust the restrictions depending on weather and fire risk.

The details

Under Stage 1 restrictions, recreational wood fires not contained in a permanent enclosure or approved portable device, as well as pile burning and other prescribed fires, are prohibited. However, some activities like wood fires in properly designed containment devices (with restrictions in short-term rentals), charcoal and pellet grills, gas-fueled fire features, and properly managed smoking, are still allowed.

• The Stage 1 fire restrictions will go into effect at 8 a.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

What’s next

Fire officials will continue to monitor the conditions and may adjust the restrictions depending on weather and fire risk.