Fire activity and dry conditions prompt Stage 2 fire restrictions in Southeastern Arizona

Tucson, Ariz. (May 12, 2025) — Due to severe and extreme drought conditions and an uptick in fire activity, Arizona State, federal agencies, and Tribal agencies representing southeast Arizona plan to implement Stage 2 fire restrictions.

Effective Monday, May 12, 2025, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Bureau of Land Management Gila District, Coronado National Forest, Saguaro National Park, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Coronado National Memorial, Chiricahua National Monument, Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Tumacácori National Historic Park, Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, and Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge will implement campfire and smoking restrictions in southeastern Arizona. A burn moratorium also goes into effect Monday, May 12, on the Gila River Indian Community. The San Carlos Apache Tribe has been in Stage 2 restrictions since March.

Residents and visitors should check with the respective county and Tribal governments for information on the implementation of fire bans across unincorporated county lands as well as within Tribal jurisdictions.

Beginning May 12, 2025, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited:

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, elevated grill, or wood stove. This includes fires in developed campgrounds or improved sites.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
• Discharging a firearm, including target shooting, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations.
• Mechanical and industrial prohibitions include:
  • Operating any internal combustion engine off designated roadways.
  • Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
  • Using an explosive.

Fireworks and exploding targets are never allowed on federal or state lands. Target shooting is prohibited year-round on National Park Service and state lands.

Violation of these restrictions is punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both. Violators may also be held personally responsible for reimbursement of fire suppression costs.

Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters possessing shut-off devices are allowed. When using a portable stove, ensure the area is clear of grass and other fine fuels.

Cigarettes should never be thrown out the window of a vehicle.

Never park a vehicle over dead grass; the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.

Fire conditions, as well as localized closures and restrictions, are subject to change. For a more detailed explanation concerning agency restrictions and fire information, please contact the nearest land management agency office. For more general information, visit https://wildlandfire.az.gov/fire-restrictions.