Missoula Enacts Stage 2 Fire Restrictions as Fire Danger Climbs

As Montana continues to deal with hot temperatures and extremely dry conditions, the City of Missoula is tightening fire restrictions. 

Introduction of Stage 2 Fire Restrictions

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Friday, August 7, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions take effect on City of Missoula conservation lands and open spaces. 

The decision was made jointly by Missoula Fire Chief Lonnie Rash and Missoula Mayor Andrea Davis, who agreed with other local fire officials that worsening conditions justify the additional restrictions. 

Understanding Fire Danger Levels

According to the city, the current fire danger is rated Very High. 

"With the recent vegetative fire starts in and around the Missoula Valley, coupled with the regional weather patterns, the move to Stage 2 restrictions is warranted," Rash said in a statement. 

Stage 2 restrictions include several prohibitions designed to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires. 

Key Prohibitions Under Stage 2 Restrictions

They include: 

• No campfires (already prohibited year-round on city conservation lands)  
• No smoking except inside an enclosed vehicle or building, or while stopped in an area cleared of all flammable materials within a three-foot radius  
• No operating motorized vehicles off designated roads or trails  
• No operating internal combustion engines  
• No welding or using acetylene or other torches between 1 p.m. and 1 a.m.  

Several of these activities are already prohibited on City of Missoula conservation properties.

READ MORE: ICYMI: Here’s Why Trees Have Blue Spray Paint at Missoula’s Blue Mountain

The restrictions apply to many of Missoula's most popular outdoor recreation areas, including: 

• Mount Jumbo  
• Mount Sentinel  
• North Hills  
• Kim Williams Trail  
• Greenough Park  
• Tower Street Conservation Area  
• Other City of Missoula conservation lands  

Awareness of Dry Conditions in City Parks

City officials are also reminding residents that many city parks are not irrigated and have become extremely dry, making them more susceptible to fire. For a list of the affected areas, please visit the city of Missoula's website. 

READ MORE: Here’s How to Prevent Wildfires in Montana This Summer

Residents with questions about conservation lands can contact the Missoula Parks and Recreation Department, while fire restriction questions can be directed to the Missoula Fire Department.