FLAGSTAFF — After weeks of heightened fire danger, officials announced Tuesday that the Coconino National Forest will reduce fire restrictions from Stage 2 to Stage 1 beginning 8 a.m. Wednesday.
The change follows widespread rainfall across all three districts of the forest, lowering immediate fire risk. Along with the downgrade, motorized closures near the San Francisco Peaks, Marshall Lake, and Pumphouse Wash will be lifted.
Under Stage 1 restrictions, open flames such as campfires, charcoal grills, wood stoves, and coal-burning fires remain prohibited, except in developed recreation sites with designated fire rings or grills. Smoking is also limited to enclosed vehicles, buildings, or developed areas.
Visitors may continue using propane-fueled stoves and fire devices that can be turned on and off, provided they are placed in cleared areas free of flammable material within a three-foot radius. Recreational shooting is allowed, though target shooting regulations remain in place.
Year-round restrictions remain in effect in Flagstaff, Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon, West Sedona, and Pumphouse Wash, where fire danger is consistently higher.
Forest officials emphasized that future restrictions will depend on weather conditions and forest health, and urged visitors to remain cautious despite the easing of rules.
