County Fire Department Bans Open Burning

County Fire Department Bans Open Burning
Sandoval County, NM
June 21, 2012

Effective immediately and until further notice, open burning is prohibited–including within established fire rings or pits. Liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves, fireplaces within buildings, and charcoal grills at private residences are all allowed under the ban.

“Recent sightings of unattended camp fires, along with the severe drought conditions, prompted us to issue this ban,” says Sandoval County Fire Marshal James Maxon. “It’s necessary to ensure the safety and well being of all county residents.”

Follows Fireworks Restrictions
The Sandoval County Commission passed a resolution on June 7, 2012 restricting the use of fireworks in Sandoval County.

Under that resolution, fireworks are prohibited in grassy wild land areas. In addition, commercial display fireworks, fireworks that shoot more than 10 feet in the air, outside a six foot circle, or louder than a cap gun are all prohibited.

The following types of fireworks are banned from sale and use within the unincorporated areas of Sandoval County:
• Stick-type rockets
• Helicopters
• Aerial spinners
• Missile-type rockets
• Ground audible devices
• Firecrackers.

The fire ban and fireworks restrictions will be enforced by the Sandoval County Fire Marshal and the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone found to be conducting an open burn or using illegal fireworks will be subject to arrest and or fine. County residents should report illegal burning or fireworks to 505-891-7226.

For additional information, contact Sandoval County Fire Marshal James Maxon at 505-934-8788.