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Commission declares fire‑danger emergency, imposes burning restrictions
Summary
Citing high winds and multiple recent fires, the Board approved Resolution No. 2025‑14 to prohibit open burning in unincorporated Torrance County during critical fire weather; the restriction remains in force until rescinded.
Torrance County commissioners unanimously approved Resolution No. 2025‑14 on March 26, declaring a fire danger emergency for unincorporated county areas and imposing burning restrictions. County Manager J. Jordan Barela said the action was based on ordinance 87‑2 and was prompted by several recent fires and forecasted high wind conditions.
Barela told the board the county experienced days with gusts of 50–70 mph and five local fires in a recent week, prompting the step to prohibit open fires during ongoing critical fire weather. The resolution preserves certain permitted activities (for example barbeques under controlled conditions) under the ordinance but makes intentional, unauthorized open burning a misdemeanor.
Commissioners discussed whether a separate resolution should specifically address fireworks if dry conditions continue into July. The resolution has no fixed end date and will remain in effect until the board lifts it.
Vote: unanimous approval. County staff said they will monitor weather and rescind the restriction when appropriate.
