Castle Rock is surrounded by wildlands, which are picturesque but also can be a fire hazard during the dry conditions that recently have persisted here.

It’s important to mitigate the threat of wildfires, which is why Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Chief Art Morales – acting on authority granted by Town Council – on Wednesday imposed Stage 2 fire restrictions within Town.

Under Stage 2 restrictions, there shall be no:
· Open burning of any kind
· Use of charcoal grills and fires in chimneys, portable fireplaces or patio fire pits
· Campfires at developed campgrounds or picnic areas
· Smoking, unless in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is clear of flammable material
· Welding or operating torches with an open flame in outdoor areas without a permit
· Using internal or external combustion engines without a spark-arresting device

Under Stage 2 restrictions, cooking on gas stoves or grills still is allowed.

People found to be in violation of the restrictions are subject to punishment of a $1,000 fine, 180 days in jail or both.

Inquiries regarding the current status of fire restrictions in Town should be directed to the Fire Chief’s Office, 303-660-1066.