Fire Restrictions & Burn Permits
Learn about current fire restrictions and how to obtain a burn permit in Adams County to ensure compliance with safety and air quality regulations.
Overview of Fire Restrictions and Burn Permits
Adams County may implement fire restrictions depending on conditions. Burn permits are required for certain types of open burning and are regulated by both the Sheriff’s Office and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
Burn Definitions & Permits
Understand what qualifies as open burning, who needs a permit, and what materials are allowed or prohibited.
Agricultural Burning
The burning of cover vegetation for the purpose of preparing soil for crop production, controlling weeds, or maintaining water conveyance structures associated with agricultural operations.
Fire Weather Watch
Issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for red flag conditions within the next 12 to 48 hours in or near the affected area.
Fire Weather Zones
Two fire zones in Adams County have been designated by the National Weather Service based on elevation and local weather patterns:
- Zone 240: Latitude 39.810N, Longitude -104.709W, Elevation 5,387 ft
- Zone 245: Latitude 39.794N, Longitude -104.190W, Elevation 5,049 ft
High Wind Warning
Issued when one-minute average surface winds of 35 knots (40 mph or 64 km/h) or greater are expected or observed for one hour or more, or wind gusts reach 50 knots (58 mph or 93 km/h) or higher, regardless of duration.
High Wind Watch
Issued when conditions are favorable for high winds within the next 12 to 48 hours in or near the watch area.
Open Burning
A fire intentionally set for grassland or forest management, including vegetation, habitat, or fuel management. Open burning includes both broadcast and pile burning.
Permitting does not apply to:
- Agricultural burning
- Smokeless or safety flares used for waste gas combustion or hazard indication
- Emissions from fireplaces, fire pits, chimeneas, or similar approved containers for recreational use
- Campfires (see separate definition)
Prescribed Burning
The controlled application of fire under a written plan and specific environmental conditions to manage wildland fuels. Safety measures ensure the fire stays within a designated area to achieve land-management goals.
Red Flag Warning
A forecast issued by the National Weather Service to alert land managers and firefighters that weather conditions are ideal for wildland fire ignition and rapid spread.
Slash
Woody debris such as limbs, branches, and stems less than six inches in diameter and free of dirt. Does not include stumps, roots, or other materials.