EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV) – It\u2019s no secret it\u2019s been a mild and dry winter — and as anyone who\u2019s lived in Colorado knows all too well, that combination leads to increased fire danger.<\/p>\n
In response to that continuing risk, Unincorporated El Paso County and the City of Fountain are now under stage two burn restrictions. <\/p>\n
The El Paso County Sheriff\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe current conditions create an extreme risk for wildfires which can spread rapidly and threaten lives, homes, and critical infrastructure,\u201d Sheriff Joseph Roybal said in a statement. \u201cAs the county\u2019s 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\u2019s cooperation during this critical time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Under stage two restrictions, the following are prohibited in all unincorporated areas of El Paso County and within the City of Fountain:<\/p>\n
Open Burning & Fires:\u00a0All 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:\u00a0The sale and use of all fireworks are strictly prohibited.Outdoor Smoking:\u00a0Smoking is prohibited outdoors. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle or building.Explosives:\u00a0The use of explosives is prohibited.<\/p>\n
The following are allowed only when the specific safety requirements are met:<\/p>\n
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:\u00a0Only in developed campgrounds, picnic grounds, or at private residences.Required Fuel:\u00a0Must be fueled by liquid propane (LPG), natural gas, or other liquid fuels.Safety Clearance:\u00a0The area must be cleared of all flammable materials for at least 3 feet in all directions.Flame Limits:\u00a0Flame lengths must not exceed 2 feet.Shut-off Mechanism:\u00a0The appliance must be able to be immediately extinguished by a switch, valve, or tip-over safety switch.Outdoor Welding & Torch Operations (\u201cHot Work\u201d)Clearance:\u00a0Work must be performed in a clear area at least 30 feet in diameter.Fire Watch:\u00a0A dedicated fire watch must be established with ready access to a fire extinguisher or water supply to immediately suppress any resulting fire.<\/p>\n
Violations could result in a fine up to $1,000.<\/p>\n
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<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 City of Fountain, CO (@cityoffountain) February 16, 2026<\/a> <\/p>\n Copyright 2026 KKTV. All rights reserved.<\/p>\n