May 25, 2023 – Starting on Friday, heightened seasonal restrictions will take effect on Bureau of Land Management monitored lands in southern sections of Mohave, La Paz, and Yuma counties in western Arizona. These regulations come in response to a notable surge in wildfire occurrences, predicted to escalate as the region endures progressively warmer and dryer conditions in the forthcoming months. The restrictions aim to control activities on public territories that have been identified as primary contributors to wildfire incidents, specifically those involving water resources.

What Is Forbidden.

As of Friday, May 26, at 8 a.m., the outlined activities will be strictly forbidden on BLM lands:

• Constructing, overseeing, or using any form of fire, including campfires, charcoal, coal, or wood stove fires, unless within designated recreation or improved areas.
• Smoking, unless contained within a closed vehicle or structure. All federal buildings have a no-smoking policy.
• Firing a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, unless participating in a lawful hunt in compliance with state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations.
• Fireworks and exploding targets are banned throughout the year on federally supervised territories in Arizona.

What Is Allowed.

Devices that utilize pressurized liquid or gas, such as stoves, lanterns, and heaters with built-in shut-off mechanisms, are permitted. If a portable stove is used, it must be situated in an area free of vegetation and on stable ground to avoid accidental toppling and potential ignition.

Check with Local Authorities and Avoid Fines.

Community members and tourists are urged to consult with their respective county and municipal authorities for details regarding fire regulations within their jurisdiction.

Fire situations, as well as localized prohibitions and regulations, are subject to change. Rules imposed by tribal, federal, state, and local authorities might differ, with potential variations in restriction notices.

Noncompliance with these regulations may result in fines, imprisonment, or both. Offenders may also be held accountable for compensating the costs of fire suppression.

Vehicles and Wildfires.

In an effort to prevent wildfires, BLM says that you should not toss cigarettes from vehicle windows. Avoid parking vehicles over dry vegetation, as the vehicle’s undercarriage can generate sufficient heat to ignite surrounding plants. Make sure your vehicle is in optimal operating condition, tires are adequately inflated, and check for any trailing metal or chains from towed trailers.

Read the BLM’s press release for further information.