News Release

Dry Conditions Trigger Fire Restrictions at Tonto National Forest and Tonto National Monument

Information graphic for fire restrictions.

News Release Date: June 14, 2019

Contact: Eric Schreiner, 928-467-2241 x400

Roosevelt, AZ – Effective on June 15, 2019, Tonto National Forest and the Tonto National Monument are going into Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.

Beginning June 15, 2019, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited:
 

• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or wood or charcoal burning stove. 36 CFR 261.52(a)
  
  Exceptions: Campfires/charcoal fires in metal fire rings and pedestal grills provided by the Forest Service will be allowed in developed recreation sites listed in Exhibit B. Gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices are permitted provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
   
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.  36 CFR 261.52(d)
   
• Welding, or operating an acetylene torch or other torch with open flame. 36 CFR 261.52 (i).
   
• Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations. 36 CFR 261.58(m).

Fireworks are always prohibited year-round on federal lands:
Violation of restrictions on federal lands is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual and up to $10,000 for an organization; or imprisonment for not more six (6) months or both. Violators also may be held personally responsible for reimbursement of fire suppression costs.

Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters possessing shut-off devices are allowed. When using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire.

Fires in developed campsites or picnic areas where grills are allowed should never be left unattended and should be completely extinguished upon departure. Always, drown, stir, and repeat until the fire is cold to the touch.

Cigarettes should never be thrown out the window of a vehicle. Instead, ashtrays should be used in order to prevent wildfires. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out cigarette butts while hiking or camping.

Maintain spark arrestors and do not run power equipment on windy days. Never park a vehicle over dead grass, the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.

Fire conditions as well as localized closures and restrictions are subject to change. Because tribal, federal, state, and local mandates are different, they may have some differences in their restriction notices. For a more detailed explanation concerning agency restrictions and fire information in general, please contact the nearest land management agency office where you plan to work or play, visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov or call the toll free Southwest Fire Restrictions Hotline [phone].

For more information contact:

[phone] and e-mail us or visit:
https://www.nps.gov/tont
https://www.facebook.com/TontoNPS
https://www.instagram.com/TontoNPS|
https://twitter.com/tonto_nps

                                                                      -- NPS --