Larimer County commissioners on Tuesday voted unanimously to extend existing county fire restrictions through 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2025, following a recommendation from Sheriff John Fain.

Fain told the board the extension is a conservative measure because several planning and resource indices still support restrictions even as recent weather has reduced local fire danger. "I would ask that they continue until, Tuesday, September 30 at 11:59PM as well," the sheriff said.

Why it matters: The restrictions affect areas at and above elevation thresholds the county and federal partners use for seasonal rules; sheriff’s staff said the rules are intended to reduce human-started wildfires while allowing most recreational activities that comply with the restrictions.

Scope and allowances: The sheriff described what remains permitted in restricted areas: campfires are allowed only in permanently mounted masonry or metal fire rings; portable gas or propane grills and other devices with an on/off switch are permitted. Fain said the county had adopted a topography-based restriction banding tied to elevation ranges to align with regional federal partners and to reduce public confusion.

Board discussion and action: Commissioners who spoke thanked sheriff’s staff and emergency management partners for ongoing mitigation and public outreach. Commissioner Jody Shattuck McNally stressed that hazards cross jurisdictional lines and praised county mitigation and resiliency hub efforts. Commissioner John Kefalas and Chair Kristen Stevens also supported the cautious extension. Commissioner Shattuck McNally moved to extend restrictions; the board voted 3-0 to approve the resolution.

What to watch next: Sheriff Fain said regional partners may reassess and that the county can lift restrictions sooner if conditions remain wet and favorable; staff indicated regular monitoring and that updates will be posted through county public channels.