COUNTY News:

Due to ongoing dry conditions and prevailing high winds, Fire Marshal Colorado Cordova of the Los Alamos Fire Department (LAFD) has elevated fire restrictions to Stage 2, effective today, May 28,  within the boundaries of Los Alamos County to safeguard public health and safety, as well as protect lands, structures, and natural and historical artifacts.   

Under the Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Order 2026-02, stringent restrictions and conditions are imposed as follows:

• Building, maintaining and use of outdoor fires including campfires and recreational fires of any kind is prohibited except for outdoor cooking conducted under the following conditions: 
• • cooking is performed on a pressurized gas or propane fire grill with a lid that closes, pellet stove, or electric cooking device; and
  • the pressurized gas or propane fire grill with a lid that closes, pellet stove, or electric cooking device is placed on a developed non-combustible hard surface such as a concrete slab; and   
  • the outdoor cooking is subject to ongoing surveillance while cooking is occurring; and
  • during and after the outdoor cooking a portable fire extinguisher, a hose with a water source, or a shovel with sufficient dirt available to extinguish a fire must be readily available.
• Smoking is prohibited unless in an enclosed vehicle or building, or in an area free of nearby vegetation and combustible materials.
• The ignition and use of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices is prohibited.
• Operating any small equipment or tools powered by an internal combustion engine, including chainsaws or lawnmowers, is prohibited, unless used by a property owner or the property owner’s agent to maintain their residential or commercial property. Use of small equipment or tools permitted under this section shall be equipped with a spark arresting device.
• Outdoor welding and/or operating any torch with an open flame or external features that produce sparks, such as an acetylene torch, is prohibited unless specifically granted written approval or permit by the fire chief, fire marshal, or their designee.
• Any outdoor work which produces a hot ember or visible flame is prohibited, unless a permit is obtained from the fire chief, fire marshal, or their designee.

Violations of any fire restrictions enacted by the order may result in a written notice violation (citation) and criminal penalties.

Fire Marshal Cordova urges all community members to remain vigilant and immediately report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 9-1-1. Early reporting can prevent the spread of fires and protect our community and environment.

Additionally, when visiting areas outside of Los Alamos County’s jurisdiction, he reminds everyone to comply with fire restrictions imposed by local, state and federal authorities, including Pueblos and other counties. These measures are crucial to preventing fire incidents and safeguarding the community and its natural resources.

For more information, view the Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Order 2026-02 on the County Alerts and Current Conditions website under “Fire Restrictions” or contact LAFD at 505.662.8301.