EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV) – It’s no secret it’s been a mild and dry winter — and as anyone who’s lived in Colorado knows all too well, that combination leads to increased fire danger.
In response to that continuing risk, Unincorporated El Paso County and the City of Fountain are now under stage two burn restrictions.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office announced that unincorporated parts of the county were under stage two restrictions, effective at 1 p.m. The City of Fountain was not far behind, announcing stage two restrictions for the city just before 5 p.m.
“The current conditions create an extreme risk for wildfires which can spread rapidly and threaten lives, homes, and critical infrastructure,” Sheriff Joseph Roybal said in a statement. “As the county’s fire warden, it is my duty to protect life and property for our citizens. Stage two fire restrictions are necessary to reduce the risk of human-caused fires and to ensure the safety of our residents, visitors, and first responders. We appreciate the public’s cooperation during this critical time.”
Under stage two restrictions, the following are prohibited in all unincorporated areas of El Paso County and within the City of Fountain:
Open Burning & Fires: All open fires and open burning are prohibited. This includes campfires, warming fires, charcoal grill fires, and the use of wood-burning stoves (except as noted below).Fireworks: The sale and use of all fireworks are strictly prohibited.Outdoor Smoking: Smoking is prohibited outdoors. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle or building.Explosives: The use of explosives is prohibited.
The following are allowed only when the specific safety requirements are met:
Indoor Heating & FireplacesThe use of fireplaces or wood-burning stoves is permitted, provided they are located within a building.Gas-Fueled Appliances (Stoves, Fire Pits, & Appliances)Allowed Locations: Only in developed campgrounds, picnic grounds, or at private residences.Required Fuel: Must be fueled by liquid propane (LPG), natural gas, or other liquid fuels.Safety Clearance: The area must be cleared of all flammable materials for at least 3 feet in all directions.Flame Limits: Flame lengths must not exceed 2 feet.Shut-off Mechanism: The appliance must be able to be immediately extinguished by a switch, valve, or tip-over safety switch.Outdoor Welding & Torch Operations (“Hot Work”)Clearance: Work must be performed in a clear area at least 30 feet in diameter.Fire Watch: A dedicated fire watch must be established with ready access to a fire extinguisher or water supply to immediately suppress any resulting fire.
Violations could result in a fine up to $1,000.
In most cases, the City of Fountain follows El Paso County when it comes to burn restrictions. As of today, we are under Stage II Burn Restrictions. Here is a handy guide from EPCO to explain what’s currently allowed and not allowed. pic.twitter.com/yrt5MrWHdk
— City of Fountain, CO (@cityoffountain) February 16, 2026
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