UPDATE:  This advisory has been extended through July 8 at 9 p.m.

Due to fire safety concerns, Mesa County Public Health has issued no burn advisory through July 8 at 9 p.m. Burning of any kind, including agricultural burning, is not allowed during this advisory period. 

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Mesa County and other areas across the Western Slope. The combination of gusty winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels will result in critical fire weather conditions. 

Mesa County Public Health reminds residents of the Stage 1 fire restrictions in place which means no open burning is allowed without a special permit from the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.

Stage 1 fire restrictions were announced on June 26 and prohibit:

  • Personal use of fireworks
  • Campfires outside of designated fire pits or fire rings
  • Agricultural open burning without a Sheriff’s issued burn permit
  • Use of explosive targets
  • Smoking outside near combustible materials.

Spring Burn Season ended May 31 and was suspended in mid-March due to concerns with the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated threat to people with heart and/or lung disease. Instead of burning, consider these alternatives:

  • Take yard waste to the Mesa County Organic Materials composting facility at Mesa County Solid Waste, 3071 U.S. Hwy. 50. The facility accepts material for composting at no charge and is open Thursday-Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. 
  • Compost leaves and grass clippings yourself. This can improve water retention in your yard or garden.
  • Rent or borrow a wood chipper for your tree and shrub trimmings. Chipped branches can also be good mulch.