SUMMIT COUNTY, Colorado – Summit County officials have significantly increased the maximum penalty for violating local fire restrictions as the region continues to face elevated wildfire danger under Stage 2 fire restrictions.
On July 21st, the Summit County Board of County Commissioners approved a revised version of Ordinance 14, replacing an outdated ordinance that had remained largely unchanged since 2003. The updated measure gives county leaders the authority to enact fire restrictions and imposes much steeper financial penalties for anyone who violates them.
Under the revised ordinance, the maximum fine for a fire restriction violation jumps from $150 for a first offense to as much as $1000 per occurrence. An additional $10 surcharge will also apply. Violations are considered civil infractions and will be enforced by the Summit County Sheriff’s Office.
County Officials Say Higher Fines Reflect Growing Wildfire Threat
County leaders said the updated ordinance recognizes how much wildfire conditions and emergency response practices have changed over the past two decades. Wildfires across Colorado and the western United States have become larger, faster moving, and more destructive in recent years. Officials believe stronger penalties will encourage residents and visitors to take fire restrictions more seriously during periods of extreme fire danger.
“Fire restrictions are an important wildfire prevention tool. Their effectiveness depends on timely implementation, clear authority, and penalties that reflect the risk posed by violations.” – Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons
Summit County Commissioner Eric Mamula also emphasized that preventing human caused wildfires requires cooperation from everyone spending time outdoors.
“It’s easy to do the right thing and follow the rules when we’re facing extraordinary fire danger. This updated ordinance aligns with how seriously we all need to take these fire restrictions and work together to reduce the chances of a wildfire in Summit County.” – Summit County Commissioner Eric Mamula
FitzSimons added that the Sheriff’s Office intends to enforce the updated ordinance and hopes the increased financial consequences will discourage risky behavior.
“We remain committed to holding people who violate fire restrictions accountable. The increased penalty will certainly attract attention and, hopefully, reduce violations and protect our community.” – Jaime FitzSimons
Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Remain in Effect
Summit County remains under Stage 2 fire restrictions, the highest level of local fire restrictions before complete public land closures.
Under the current restrictions, all outdoor fires are prohibited. That includes campfires on private property, in developed campgrounds, and throughout the backcountry. The Summit County Shooting Range also remains closed while Stage 2 restrictions are in effect.
The updated ordinance applies to all unincorporated areas of Summit County. Officials are urging residents and visitors to follow all current restrictions as hot and dry conditions continue, saying compliance is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of a devastating human caused wildfire.