Steamboat Springs, Colorado-December 10, 2025-Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue (SSFR) reminds residents that the annual Open Burn Season is underway, running from November 1 through April 15, provided all safety criteria are met prior to ignition.
“Over the past several years, we’ve seen firsthand the impact wildfires can have on our community,” said Fire Marshal Doug Shaffer with Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue. “Even during the winter months, it’s absolutely critical that all requirements are followed before conducting any open burn. These regulations are in place to protect lives, property, and our valley.”
Open burning during the season is intended only for essential agricultural burns—such as ditch burning in conjunction with irrigation, weed control, and crop production—or for previously permitted slash piles associated with approved wildland fire mitigation projects.
Open Burn Requirements
Before conducting any open burn, the following parameters must be met prior to any open burn:
- A permit with Routt County Environmental Health is required. 970-870-5588.
- Open burns are not allowed in the city limits of Steamboat Springs. Open burns are only permitted in the county portion of the Steamboat Springs Area Fire Protection District.
- Burn piles must be less than 8’ x 8’ x 8’ and be devoid of 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.
“Even with snow on the ground, conditions can change rapidly with warming temperatures and wind,” continued Shaffer. “We urge residents to use caution with any burn and to consider alternatives such as recycling, reuse, or proper landfill disposal before choosing to burn.”
Fire Pits Also Require Permits
Residents are also reminded that all residential recreational fire pits that burn wood require an inspection and permit from SSFR, regardless of fire restrictions. Additional fire pit information and permitting details are available online.
Always observe fire safety guidelines and consult the National Weather Service Fire Weather Forecasts.
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Contact
Email Doug Shaffer, Fire Marshal, or call 970-879-7170
Email Joe Oakland, Deputy Fire Chief, or call 970-879-7170
Email Michael Lane, Communications Manager, or call 970-871-8220