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Show Low enters stage 2 fire restrictions; outdoor fires, burn permits suspended
Summary
City director announced that Show Low and surrounding jurisdictions moved to stage 2 fire restrictions effective 6 p.m., prohibiting open wood fires, debris burning and most charcoal/barbecue fires on private property; penalties and guidance for construction and permitted burning activities were summarized.
The city announced on May 13 that Show Low, Navajo County and some surrounding jurisdictions entered stage 2 fire restrictions effective 6 p.m., prohibiting most outdoor fires on private property and suspending burn permits until further notice.
Director Drogatzkes told the Planning and Zoning Commission that the mayor signed a proclamation putting the area into stage 2. The director listed specific prohibitions: wood campfires and charcoal or briquette fires; most stove fires except certain UL/FM-approved propane devices used for cooking or warmth (those must be attended at all times); all debris burning and burn permits; smoking except within enclosed vehicles or in cleared areas at least 3 feet in diameter; use of off-road motor vehicles in vegetated areas except for parking in a cleared area within 10 feet of the road; explosives, fireworks and tracer/incendiary ammunition; and welding or hot work without prior coordination with Timber Mesa Fire.
Drogatzkes asked residents to be especially careful about dragging trailer chains, hot mufflers/catalytic converters, and other common causes of stray ignition. The restrictions follow recent local fires and a structure fire attributed to a charcoal grill ember beneath a deck that the director used as an example of how a small ignition source can cause a major loss.
The director noted limited exceptions for enclosed cooking devices that meet safety standards and said Timber Mesa Fire provides guidance and permit requirements for any necessary construction-related hot work. The proclamation remains in effect until the city lifts the restrictions.
Why it matters: Stage 2 restrictions broadly limit common outdoor activities that produce open flame or sparks and affect private residents, construction sites and recreational users. The city urged compliance to reduce wildfire risk during dry, windy conditions.
What residents should do: Avoid open flames and debris burning; do not discard smoking materials; ensure trailer chains and mufflers are secure; consult Timber Mesa Fire before performing welding or other hot work outdoors; use only approved, attended propane cooking devices if necessary.
