Death Valley National Park sign

Death Valley National Park is increasing fire restrictions and prohibiting all campfires and most other uses of open flame.

DEATH VALLEY, CA–Due to high fire danger, Death Valley National Park is increasing fire restrictions and prohibiting all campfires and most other uses of open flame within Death Valley National Park effective Saturday, September 12th. These new restrictions are in addition to regular annual restrictions on campfires at higher elevation campgrounds in the park.

The following restrictions will remain in place until the fire danger subsides:

•Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal BBQ, or stove fire (except a portable stove using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel), or open flame of any kind, including within established campgrounds.

•Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle.

•Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame, except by permit.

•Operating a motor vehicle or combustion engine equipment without a spark arrestor.

Possessing or using fireworks or explosives is always prohibited within Death Valley National Park. The use or discharge of a firearm within the park is prohibited.

Although vegetation is sparse in many low elevation areas of the park, there are large forested areas at higher elevations. Trees and shrubs surround many developed areas and popular campgrounds.

“Death Valley National Park has experienced two small wildfires this year,” Chief Ranger Rob Wissinger stated. “With dry and windy conditions found in Death Valley National Park, the potential for a rapidly spreading fire in sensitive wilderness or in populated areas is high.”

This year, wildfires have burned more than three million acres across California—and the fire season has another four months to go. Taking individual responsibility to reduce wildfire risk while recreating on public lands can keep the public and firefighters safe.

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