New Fire Restrictions

Sonora, CA — The Forest Service reports they are issuing a Forest Order enacting temporary fire restrictions in Moderate Hazard Areas of the Stanislaus National Forest.

The fire restriction prohibits campfires, briquette barbecues, and smoking outside developed campgrounds in designated Moderate Hazard Areas of the Forest. Welding and blasting also are prohibited, except by special permit.

Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski says “Hot, dry weather and tinder-dry conditions continue to persist in Moderate Hazard Areas of the Forest. This Forest Order serves as an extra measure to help reduce the potential for large and damaging wildfires.” Skalski adds “We are asking the public’s cooperation in helping us prevent destructive fires before they start.”

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, August 21, 2012, the following restrictions are in effect by Forest Order in designated Moderate Hazard Areas on the Groveland, Mi-Wok, Summit, and Calaveras Ranger Districts of the Stanislaus National Forest:

• Campfires: Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, (including briquette type barbecue), or stove fire is prohibited, except within developed recreation sites. Persons with a valid California Campfire Permit may use a portable stove or lantern that uses gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel.


• Smoking:  Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.


• Welding:  Operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited, except by permit.


• Explosives: Using an explosive is prohibited, except by permit.

Violators can face a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both for breaking these restricitons. These temporary fire restrictions will remain in effect until the end of the 2012 fire season unless Forest Officials lift the order.

Click here for more details and map of hazard areas.