Can You Have a Campfire in Western Colorado Right Now?

Colorado’s extreme drought conditions and frequent wildfires meant stage 2 fire restrictions were in place for most of the summer. These restrictions have eased somewhat in Mesa, Delta, and Montrose counties now that September has arrived.

While some recreational campfires are allowed again under specific conditions, open burning, fireworks, and activities that can spark fires remain restricted. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening in each of these Western Slope counties.

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Mesa County Is Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

Snyder Fire & Jones Fire in Mesa County 6/27/26 — TSM GJ W Adams

Grand Junction and Mesa County moved from Stage 2 to Stage 1 fire restrictions on September 4. Campfires inside designated fire pits or rings are back; personal fireworks and explosive targets are NOT. Open agricultural burning requires a permit. Chainsaws and other internal-combustion engines must have an approved spark arrestor. Mesa County also warns motorists to be extra careful about parking in tall grass and dragging trailer chains as fall approaches.

Delta County Is Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

Some areas along the Gunnison River and its North Fork have really struggled with the summer heat. Delta County also moved from Stage 2 to Stage 1 on September 4. Just like in Mesa County, campfires outside permanent pits are prohibited. Bonfires, agricultural burning, fireworks, and exploding targets are banned during Stage 1 restrictions. Delta County officials remind everyone that fire danger remains high.

Montrose County Is Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

Can you guess which day Montrose County changed to Stage 1 restrictions? Yup, Friday, September 4^th. Stage 1 makes a big difference for a holiday weekend. Open burning, including agricultural burning and open campfires, remains prohibited, while campfires are allowed in permanently constructed fire grates or enclosed fire pits at approved campgrounds and state parks.

Keep Going: See Stunning Photos of Colorado's Snyder Mesa Fire

Throughout the Snyder Mesa Fire, Grand Valley listeners shared photos showing towering smoke columns, glowing ridgelines, aircraft battling the flames, and the wildfire's impact on communities west of Grand Junction.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Look: Grand Junction’s New Rec Center Is Almost Ready: See Inside

Before the doors officially open, we got a chance to see what’s waiting inside Grand Junction’s new Community Recreation Center. From the five St. Mary’s Pools and their water features to the three-court gymnasium and climbing walls, take a closer look at some of the spaces that will soon become part of everyday life in Western Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Colorado’s First Freeze: When Will It Hit Your Backyard?

Fall can feel a long way off when Western Colorado is still dealing with summer heat, but the first frost has a way of sneaking up on us. The National Weather Service’s historical averages show just how different the timing can be from one community to the next.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Source: Western Colorado Fire Restrictions In September: What To Know

Filed Under: Colorado Wildfires, Grand Junction Outdoors

Categories: Colorado News, Colorado Local