by Steven Vetter
Managing Editor
As wildfire season appears to be in full swing throughout the western half of Colorado, I-70 Corridor jurisdictions have implemented stricter burn restrictions to prevent a similar trend locally.
Adams and Elbert county sheriff’s departments announced Level 2 burn restrictions July 11 with Arapahoe County following suit the next day. The stricter fire bans were the result of close coordination with fire department officials throughout all three counties, especially in the unincorporated eastern areas.
Under the stepped up fire restrictions, all open outdoor burning is banned, except:
• Charcoal or gas grills;
• approved portable exterior fireplaces; and
• outdoor welding or hot work.
Prescribed burning of fields or fence lines will only be allowed when a signed permit from the presiding fire chief is obtained. The likelihood of a burn permit being approved during the ban is low. Fireworks and the use of educational rockets is also restricted until further notice.
Limited burning of household trash is allowed, as long as it is done in a container that limits the amount of flame escaping.
Residents caught violating the burn ban can face stiff fines. For example, in Arapahoe County, the first convicting could result in fines up to $500; $750 for the second violation; and possibly $1,000 for the third and subsequent offenses.