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Lawrence County adopts stage‑2 fire restrictions amid dry conditions
Summary
Commissioners unanimously adopted resolution 2026‑19 adopting stage‑2 fire restrictions across Lawrence County (no campfires, welding limits, ATV restrictions off trails), aligning county rules with USFS recommendations and authorizing county signage and public outreach.
The Lawrence County Commission unanimously adopted a resolution on July 30 enacting countywide stage‑2 fire restrictions intended to reduce wildfire risk during dry conditions and to align county rules with federal Forest Service guidance.
The measure prohibits campfires and welding except in permitted circumstances, restricts some ATV use off trails, and requires spark arrestors on chainsaws in specified situations. An emergency management official presenting the ordinance told the board it mirrored the Forest Service stage‑2 restrictions and that local fire chiefs and the US Forest Service supported the action. The presenter said the resolution “will affect the entire county” and described measures to deploy signs and digital messages in high‑visibility areas.
Commissioners discussed the role of the state Department of Transportation in permitting messages on DOT electronic signs and the county’s plan to place signs on state highway posts where allowed. The commission voted to authorize the chairman to sign the resolution (recorded as Resolution 2026‑19); county staff will coordinate sign placement and outreach to campgrounds and visitors. The action is effective immediately; staff said it will be adjusted if conditions change or if the Forest Service raises restrictions to stage 3.
