Navigating Wildfire Season in Summit County

Wildfire preparedness is an important part of living in Summit County, where dry conditions, forested neighborhoods, and changing weather patterns can quickly increase fire risk throughout the warmer months. This resource guide brings together local mitigation programs, fire protection services, restriction stages, and emergency preparedness tools to help homeowners stay informed and protect their properties.


Local Fire Protection & Mitigation Resources


Summit County Fire & EMS

To schedule a FREE wildfire preparedness and defensible space assessment click here.

For pre-construction home safety inspections and mitigation consultations click here.

Wildfire education, evacuation planning, and readiness programs can be found here.

Red, White & Blue Fire District

For current fire danger levels and restrictions updates click here.

To obtain permits for campfires, home fire pits, and controlled burns click here.

Sign up for safety alerts and learn more about community safety programs by clicking here.

County-Level Programs & Services

To learn about the free chipping program to remove slash and vegetation click here.

For hazardous fuels reduction and mitigation grants click here.

Find out more about the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) initiatives here.


Fire Restriction Stages in Summit County: A Clear Breakdown

More than 80% of wildfires are human-caused, making prevention and homeowner responsibility critical in Summit County. These guidelines are enforced and updated based on current conditions, making it important to check restrictions regularly before any outdoor activity involving fire.


Baseline (No Restrictions – Still Regulated)

Even when there are no active fire restrictions, Summit County is never “anything goes.”

What’s required year-round:

Recreational fires on private property require a permit, including fire pits.

Fire pits must be:

  • Fully enclosed with an ember screen
  • Surrounded by clear, non-combustible space
  • Have water readily available
  • Fireworks are always prohibited

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions – Elevated Fire Danger

Stage 1 is implemented when conditions begin to dry out and wildfire risk increases.

Allowed:

Fires only in approved, contained devices, such as:

  • Permanent fire pits (with permits)
  • Developed campground fire rings

Gas and charcoal grills (with caution)

Smoking only in:

  • Vehicles
  • Developed sites
  • Areas cleared of vegetation

Prohibited:

  • Campfires outside of developed or permitted areas
  • Open burning (yard debris, slash piles, etc.)
  • Fireworks, explosives, and certain spark-producing activities

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions – High to Extreme Fire Danger

Stage 2 is enacted when conditions become very dry, windy, and volatile.

Allowed:

Gas or propane appliances only (must have an on/off switch)

Prohibited:

All Stage 1 rules still apply, plus stricter limitations

All open flames outdoors, including:

  • Campfires
  • Fire pits
  • Charcoal grills 

Smoking outdoors (except in very limited safe conditions)

Any activity that can create sparks (welding, torches, etc.)

Target shooting or explosives (often restricted)


Additional Helpful Resources

Before recreating on public lands or within the White River National Forest, it’s important to stay informed about current fire conditions, weather alerts, and any active restrictions that may impact outdoor activities.

For National Weather Service (red flag warnings) click here.

For the White River National Forest and other federally controlled land restrictions click here.



A Better Buying Experience Starts with Local Knowledge

Owning a home in Summit County comes with considerations that go far beyond the purchase itself. The Brokers at Breckenridge Associates Real Estate are all long-time locals with a deep understanding of the nuances of homeownership in our resort market, from wildfire preparedness and insurance considerations to protecting the long-term value of your investment. Whether you’re purchasing your first mountain property or managing a legacy home for future generations, our Brokers are here as trusted resources well beyond the transaction.

Contact Breckenridge Associates Real Estate today at 970-453-2200 to discuss how we can help you reach your Summit County real estate goals.