In response to worsening fire conditions, continued hot and dry weather, and increased wildfire risk across southwest Colorado, the Town of Pagosa Springs has enacted Stage 2 Fire Restrictions effective at 6pm on Monday, July 6, 2026.
The restrictions were ordered by Town Manager David Harris pursuant to the Town’s emergency authority and following consultation with the Pagosa Fire Protection District Chief, the Archuleta County Sheriff, and the Town of Pagosa Springs Chief of Police. The restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.
Anyone who observes a suspected fire restriction violation, unattended fire, or smoke plume should immediately contact Archuleta County Combined Dispatch. Emergencies should be reported by calling 911. Non-emergency concerns or suspected violations can be reported by calling (970) 731-2160.
Stage 2 Fire Restrictions prohibit additional activities beyond those restricted under Stage 1 and are intended to further reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of extreme fire danger. Residents and visitors are urged to review the updated restrictions carefully and comply with all requirements while the order remains in effect.
“Current fire conditions require us to take additional precautions to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires,” said Harris. “As conditions continue to deteriorate, we ask every resident and visitor to do their part to protect our community by complying with these restrictions.”
Prohibited Activities Under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using any open fire, campfire, charcoal fire, coal fire, or wood-burning fire.
- Open burning, burn barrels, and agricultural burning.
- Smoking outdoors, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
- The use of all fireworks, including sparklers, explosive targets, and other incendiary devices.
- Welding or operating an acetylene or similar open-flame torch, except as specifically allowed by the order.
Permitted Activities Under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
- Gas-fueled grills, stoves, lanterns, and heating devices equipped with a shut-off valve, when operated in accordance with the restrictions.
- Activities specifically authorized in writing by the Town Manager.
- Emergency response activities conducted by authorized personnel in the performance of official duties.
Enforcement
Violations of the Stage 2 Fire Restrictions may result in fines, penalties, or other enforcement actions as authorized by law.
The Town encourages all residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution with any activity that could create sparks or ignite dry vegetation. Community cooperation is essential to reducing wildfire risk and protecting lives and property.
See the full Stage 2 Fire Restriction Order for complete details, operational requirements, and exceptions.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for emergency notifications from both the Town of Pagosa Springs and Archuleta County. The Town’s alert system provides important local government updates, while Archuleta County’s Nixle alert system delivers emergency notifications and public safety information, including wildfire updates, evacuation notices, and other urgent alerts. Signing up for both systems helps ensure you receive timely information from the appropriate agency.
To sign up for Town of Pagosa Springs alerts, visit pagosasprings.co.gov and select “Subscribe to Alerts,” or text “PagosaSprings” to 38276.
To sign up for Archuleta County Nixle alerts, visit local.nixle.com/register.
Residents are also encouraged to prepare now for wildfire season by creating an evacuation plan and assembling a “go bag” or 72-hour emergency kit. Emergency supplies should include important documents, medications, non-perishable food, water, flashlights, backup batteries, phone chargers, a battery-powered AM/FM radio, and pet supplies. Taking these steps in advance can help ensure you and your family are prepared to evacuate quickly and safely if conditions warrant.