Inyo National Forest is rescinding Stage II fire restrictions effective October 9th (order is rescinded October 8 at 11:59 pm). This decision is based on reduced fire risk, the recent shift in weather, and cooler and shorter days. None the less, fire danger remains high due to extended drought conditions. Therefore, Stage I fire restrictions remain in place. Effective October 9, 2021, the following restrictions will be in effect:
- Campfires are permitted only in designated developed recreation sites within fire rings. The list of designated campgrounds and recreation sites is posted here.
- No Campfires, briquette barbeques, or stove fires are permitted outside of developed recreation sites.
- Propane and gas stove use is permitted for dispersed camping and in wilderness areas. Visitors with a valid California Campfire Permit are not exempt from campfire restrictions but may to use portable stoves or lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel.
- No Smoking, 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.
- No welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame.
Resorts, pack stations, recreation residences and other sites operated under special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service may be exempt from the special orders, as long as any fire activity is conducted in compliance with their permit. These are listed here:
- Residents and visitors are reminded that simple steps can help prevent human-caused fires.
- Prevent vehicle related fires by maintaining proper tire pressure, ensuring adequate tire tread, and checking your brakes for overheating. Avoid traveling or parking on brush or grass. Ensure chains are not dragging while towing.
- Make sure your campfire is dead out! Drown it, stir it, feel it. If it’s not cool to the touch, it isn’t out.
- Use of exploding targets; such as Binary Explosive Targets, incendiary, steel jacketed or armor piercing ammunition and tracer rounds; while recreationally shooting is a fire hazard and illegal. The use of steel-core ammunition, although legal, can greatly increase the chance of a wildfire.
- Motorcycles, ATV’s and chainsaws require an approved spark arrestor.
