Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Begin June 12 in Northeast Nevada Counties

Fire Restrictions Implemented in Northeast Nevada Amid Heightened Fire Risk

ELKO, Nev. – With the increasing threat of wildfires, northeast Nevada will initiate Stage 1 Fire Restrictions starting Friday, June 12, 2026. These measures will affect various lands managed by key agencies and encompass multiple counties within the region.

Counties: Elko County and the northern parts of Eureka and Lander counties.

Agencies: Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, Nevada Division of Forestry, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs; Elko, Lander, and Eureka County.

The Stage 1 restrictions will remain effective from June 12 until October 31, 2026, unless lifted sooner.

Measures to Minimize Wildfire Hazards

Avoid activities that generate sparks, like dragging chains or engaging in recreational shooting during hot, windy weather.

Be vigilant about dry vegetation and monitor fire weather conditions.

Ensure to have fire suppression tools, such as a shovel, extinguisher, and at least five gallons of water, readily available.

Prohibited Activities Under Stage 1 Restrictions

Building or attending any fires, including campfires or stove fires, unless in designated areas with a permit. Portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed.

Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation sites, or areas cleared of flammable materials.

Operating vehicles over dried vegetation is prohibited.

Welding or operating torches with open flames is not allowed without a permit.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

Those who knowingly engage in restricted activities could face fines and be liable for costs associated with fire suppression or rehabilitation resulting from their actions.

Specific Restrictions by Jurisdiction

Different agencies might impose additional restrictions or exemptions. Fire restrictions may vary in other parts of Nevada, so it is crucial to verify local restrictions before visiting. For further details, visit NevadaFireInfo.org/restrictions.

Bureau of Land Management

Elko District

Statewide year-round prohibitions include:

Using fireworks, pyrotechnic, or incendiary devices.

Using explosives or causing explosive materials to ignite or burn.

Shooting firearms with tracer or incendiary ammunition.

Operating combustion engines without spark arrestors.

U.S. Forest Service

Mountain City-Ruby Mountains-Jarbidge Ranger District at Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Campfires are allowed only in designated fire pits or grills in developed recreation sites.

Operating chainsaws or similar equipment is banned between 1 PM and 1 AM.

Outdoor smoking is permitted only in cleared areas free of flammable materials.

Nevada Division of Forestry

Effective June 12, 2026, the following activities are prohibited on state lands, including Nevada State Parks and Recreation Areas:

Lighting fires outside developed campgrounds or designated areas.

Outdoor smoking, except in enclosed vehicles or cleared areas.

Welding or using torches without a permit.

Using explosives without a permit.

Using fireworks or incendiary devices.

Operating vehicles without spark arrestors off designated roads.

Operating vehicles in wildland areas without fire suppression tools.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Elko County

Elko County Fire Protection District

Starting July 1, an open burn ban will be in effect, with caution advised on private lands to align with BLM restrictions.

Burn barrels are allowed under specific safety conditions. They must be covered with metal mesh, placed safely from vegetation, with water and a hand tool nearby, and supervised by an adult.

Lander County & Eureka County

For more information on wildfire prevention and the latest restrictions, visit NevadaFireInfo.org.