1 week Ago By David Martinez
As temperatures increase and conditions dry out, the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department has announced the commencement of its annual fire ban starting May 1. This preventive measure follows regulations set by the Air Quality Department to reduce the risk of wildfires, which are heightened by the dry conditions resulting from last year’s below-average rainfall.An official statement from Maricopa County outlined the importance of the fire ban: "In 2024, Maricopa County received 4.
54 inches of rain. That is well below our average annual rainfall of 7.36 inches," said Jennifer Waller, Director of Maricopa County Parks and Recreation.
"With the summer heat quickly approaching and the vegetation as dry as it is, the parks are on high alert." The department also mentioned the possibility of implementing temporary fire bans in response to specific conditions, such as high winds or poor air quality, with updates provided through their website and at park entry points.The fire ban prohibits campfires, fire pits, and charcoal grills across Maricopa County’s regional parks.
Gas and propane grills are allowed in designated areas. Additionally, the lake's shores are designated as no-fire zones, and violations may result in citations under park rule R-113.As a precaution, the ban also includes smoking, which is allowed only within enclosed vehicles and campers.
While the fire ban is scheduled to end on September 30, this may change depending on conditions; park staff will closely monitor the weather and landscape and may extend the ban if dry conditions continue to ensure the safety of visitors and the protection of the parks.To stay updated on the ban or for any questions, the public can contact the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department at (602) 506-2930 or visit their website for more information..
