Who issues a fire ban?
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A fire ban is initiated in Maricopa County's regional parks by the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department. This is done to limit the possibility of starting a brush fire, which could cause serious damage to the parks. The fire ban includes the use of campfires, fire pits and charcoal grills; however, it is still acceptable to use gas/propane grills in designated areas such as the ramada areas, semi-developed and developed camping sites. Park visitors who in violation of this park rule, Rule 113, may be cited.
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Where will fire ban information be posted? Fire ban information will be posted in the teal banner at the top of every page on the maricopacountyparks.net website.
What is a temporary fire ban?
- Park supervisors have been authorized to issue temporary fire bans when a full-fledged fire ban is not in place to ensure public safety and protect the parks resources. When temporary fire bans are issued, information will be posted on the website, and park visitors will be notified as they enter the park.
- Where will temporary fire ban information be posted? The parks may post the information on their respective park home pages on the website, on the park's Facebook pages, and throughout the park. If/when possible, staff and park volunteers may visit park visitors in the campgrounds to alert and/or update them on the temporary fire ban.
Who issues a No Burn Day?
- When air pollution levels are on the rise and weather conditions create dry, stagnant air, the Maricopa County Air Quality Department and/or Arizona Department of Environmental Quality will issue a “No Burn Day.” Restrictions last for a 24-hour period, starting at midnight, and include a ban on woodburning activity including fireplaces, fire pits or open outdoor fires. Depending on the status of air quality, restrictions will change, so be sure to take note of the differences. “High Pollution Advisory,” or “HPA,” means the highest concentration of pollution may exceed the federal health standard.
- Where can I find No Burn Day alerts. The department recommends that park visitors visit the following websites for information and updates on No Burn Days:
What are the different types of No Burn Day restrictions?
*During High Pollution Advisories, it is permissible to cook with charcoal when it is being done for immediate consumption. Fires must be extinguished once the meal has been cooked.