Stage 1 fire restrictions go into effect on Friday, June 23 and that means all personal fireworks are banned in Mesa County until further notice. 

It has been an extremely hot and dry start to summer in Western Colorado, and the National Weather Service is predicting a continuation of the scorching weather conditions for weeks to come. So far in the month of June, the Grand Junction Fire Department has responded to six brush fires and 8 structure fires within the city limits.

The Mesa County Sheriff's Department and the Bureau of Land Management are putting the fire restrictions in place, effective at 12:01 a.m. on Friday.

Here's what the fire ban means.

  • All personal fireworks are banned
  • Fires are allowed in fire pits only at private residences and in developed campgrounds
  • Open burning of yard waste and fields is prohibited, except for agricultural burns
  • Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation area, or an area of at least six feet in diameter that is clear of all combustible material
  • For shooters, explosive targets are prohibited
  • Professional fireworks ARE allowed

The fire restrictions are not optional and anyone who causes a fire while restrictions are in place faces fines up to $100,000 and up to 18 months in jail.

More From 95 Rock