Open Burn Regulations

Open burning is permitted from November 1 through April 15.   

As the Yampa Valley emerges from summer long fire restrictions, Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue (SSFR) wants to make individuals aware of several key factors for those wishing to enjoy their recreational fire pits or conduct an open burn over the winter. 

Open Burn Ends NewsFlash

The following parameters must be met prior to any open burn:

  • A permit with Routt County Environmental Health is required. 970-870-5588
  • Burn piles must be less than 10’x10’x10’ and be devoid of any trash or materials more suited for the landfill.
  • There must be 6 INCHES or more of snow on the ground at and around the burn site.
  • Burning must be started prior to 11am, always monitored and be out by sunset.
  • Call Routt County Communications prior to starting the burn at 970.879.1110
  • This burn season criteria only applies to the Steamboat Springs Area Fire Protection District. Contact other fire districts to obtain their requirements for open burning.

Always observe fire safety guidelines and check the National Weather Service Fire Weather pages for local fire weather forecasts: http://www.weather.gov/bou/fire. For additional questions, contact Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue at 970.879.7170.

Recreational Fire Pits

All residential recreational fire pits that burn wood within the district require inspection and a permit from SSFR. Additional information on fire pits can be found here. 

Fire Pit Open Burn NewsFlash