Weston County Open Burning Restrictions

OPEN BURNING RESTRICTIONS 

Effective July 7, 2025

Due to a potentially severe to extreme fire situation throughout Weston County, created by a heavy fuel load and dry conditions, which could create situations that over-extend the firefighting capability of local government, the Open Burning Restrictions will take effect July 7, 2025.  

Stage 1 Restrictions: 

Discharge of fireworks, exploding target devices and all outdoor fires are prohibited in unimproved areas of Weston County except as provided below:

• Only campfires at residences or developed recreation sites, within a fire ring centered within a minimum of 15 feet cleared radius of burnable materials and a shovel and fire suppression means are present at site are permitted.

• Trash or refuse fires between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., inside containers provided with a spark arrester, centered within a minimum of 15 feet cleared radius of burnable materials and a shovel and fire suppression means are present at site are permitted. 

• Charcoal fires within enclosed grills centered within a minimum of 15 feet cleared radius of burnable materials and a shovel and fire suppression means are present at site are permitted.

• Use of acetylene cutting, electric arc welders, or metal grinding centered within a minimum of 15 feet cleared radius of burnable materials and a shovel and fire suppression means are present at site are permitted. 

• The use of portable stoves, lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum, pressurized liquid fuel or fully enclosed (sheepherder type) stove and open fire branding activities centered within a minimum of 15 feet cleared radius of burnable materials and a shovel and fire suppression means are present at site are permitted.

The following persons are exempt from the restrictions imposed in Stage 1 Restrictions:

• Any federal, state, or local officers engaged in fire, emergency, and law enforcement activities.

• Any member of a rescue or firefighting force engaged in the performance of an official duty.

• Exceptions to these restrictions and closures can be made in writing by the Weston County Commissioners.

These restrictions do not include the areas within incorporated cities and towns in Weston County or federal and state lands, as these entities may impose more or less restrictive regulations.  

Any violation of the Open Burning Restrictions may be in violation of W.S. 35-9-304 punishable by up to 30 days in jail and up to a $100.00 fine or both together with possible restitution for the cost of fire suppression and damages to others.  The County Fire Warden may temporarily lift or re-impose these Open Burning Restrictions. For the latest status on the restrictions visit www.facebook.com/westoncountyfire or call (307) 746-2031.  

(Publish June 26, 2025)