PHOENIX – On Thursday, July 23, the Bureau of Land Management will lift all seasonal fire restrictions for public lands administered by the Colorado River and Phoenix districts. This change applies to BLM lands in La Paz, Maricopa, southern Mohave, northern Pinal, western Pima, Yavapai and Yuma counties in Arizona, as well as parts of Imperial and Riverside counties in California along the Colorado River.

Due to increased precipitation throughout the region, additional rain in the weather forecast, and a rise in fuel moistures, officials have determined that the wildfire risk has diminished sufficiently to safely rescind the restrictions.

Before recreating on public lands, visitors are reminded to follow these fire safety guidelines:
• Use metal fire rings or grills where available. 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 materials, and clear the ground beneath and around the fire of all flammable items. Avoid fires on windy days if possible.
• For campfires, ensure that the fire is fully extinguished before leaving the area. Douse the fire with water and dirt and stir with a shovel until it is completely cold to the touch.
• When using a portable stove, verify that the surrounding area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping over and starting a fire.
• Never discard cigarettes out of a vehicle window. Use an ashtray instead.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out garbage, cigarette butts, and burned materials.
• Avoid parking over dead grass to prevent the risk of a vehicle’s catalytic converter igniting vegetation.
• Exercise caution when discharging a firearm, operating an internal combustion engine, welding, or using acetylene or other torches with an open flame, and when handling explosives (where permitted).

Fireworks and exploding targets remain prohibited on BLM-managed lands in Arizona. Fire restrictions may vary by county or jurisdiction depending on local fire danger levels. For more detailed information on fire restrictions, prevention tips, and area-specific guidance, please contact your local BLM office or visit https://wildlandfire.az.gov.

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