With drought conditions continuing across the region and wildfire risk on the rise, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation will implement its annual fire ban beginning May 1, 2026. The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department will also enact its fire ban on the same date.
The fire ban follows Maricopa County Air Quality Department burn activity regulations, which prohibit outdoor fires from May 1 through September 30 throughout the County, including all regional parks. Please note that fire ban dates for parks within cities and towns may vary from Maricopa County’s established timeframe. If a fire ban falls outside the County’s timeframe, the park will follow the dates set by the respective city or town.
“Maricopa County continues to experience below-average rainfall, and our desert vegetation is extremely dry,” said Jennifer Waller, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Director. “As temperatures rise, so does the risk of wildfire. These restrictions are critical to protecting our parks, visitors, and natural resources.”
What You Need to Know
During the fire ban, the following are not allowed:
- Campfires
- Fire pits
-
Charcoal grills
Allowed:
- Gas or propane grills in designated areas, such as developed and semi-developed campsites
Campfires along the shoreline at Lake Pleasant Regional Park remain prohibited year-round. Visitors who violate the fire ban may be cited under park rule R-113.
“By observing seasonal burn restrictions, we can significantly improve air quality and reduce harmful smoke that impacts our health,” said Philip McNeely, Director of the Maricopa County Air Quality Department. “Simple actions like adhering to this fire ban can make a meaningful difference in protecting the air we breathe and safeguarding the well-being of our community.”
Additional Safety Measures
Park staff may implement temporary fire restrictions before May 1 if conditions such as high winds or poor air quality warrant. When this occurs:
- Updates will be posted on the Parks website
- Visitors will be notified upon entry
- Firewood sales will be suspended
Smoking Restrictions
Smoking is prohibited in Maricopa County regional parks, except inside enclosed vehicles or campers. Please fully extinguish and properly dispose of all smoking materials.
Duration of the Ban
While the fire ban is scheduled to end on September 30, it may be extended depending on weather conditions and fire risk. Park staff will continue to monitor conditions throughout the summer.
For more information, contact Maricopa County Parks and Recreation at (602) 506-2930 or visit www.maricopa.gov/parks.