Stage 1 Fire Restrictions FAQ

Missoula County Commissioners have voted to impose Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.

As of July 3 at 12:01 a.m. these restrictions will go into effect. To learn more about what this means to those in Missoula County, please see the following Q&A. 

What is a Missoula County Stage 1 Fire Restriction?

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are brought before the Board of County Commissioners for consideration. Once the resolution is passed, this restriction prohibits the use of fireworks on both public and private lands within Missoula County. Restrictions extend the perpetual prohibition of fireworks from County parks, Forest Service and State lands to private lands within the county.

When are restrictions effective?

The County Commissioners voted to impose Stage 1 Restrictions on June 30, 2015 during their administrative meeting. The Stage 1 Restrictions will be effective 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 3, 2015.

Why isn’t the restriction effective immediately?

Delayed implementation allows agencies to ensure the effective date is the same across all agencies. It gives every entity time to get through their adoption process and it gives land managers the time to post notices on the ground.

Why did the Board of County Commissioners approve Stage 1 Restrictions?

This move comes on the heels of the Missoula County Fire Protection Association’s determination that fire danger in Missoula County is Extreme. That determination is in consultation with all local fire agencies, land management agencies and local government and is based on information related to weather, fuels, and current and expected conditions.

Who enforces these restrictions?

Missoula County and city law enforcement will be responding to the best of their ability and as resources allow.

Are any fireworks allowed?

Because they pose a fire hazard, all fireworks including the following are prohibited: snakes, smoke bombs and sparklers. This is contrary to what is allowable within Missoula city limits.

Can I sell fireworks?

Stage 1 does not prohibit the sale of fireworks. Stage 2 restrictions prohibit the sale.

Can I have a campfire?

Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire are prohibited unless:

a.       The person is using a device solely fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off.

b.       The person is conducting the above activities in designated areas where the activity is specifically authorized by written posted notice.

c.       Any Federal, State or local officer or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.

d.       All land within a city boundary is exempted (maybe – waiting to see if the city enforces the same)

Can I smoke under Stage 1 Restrictions?

Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

Who can I contact if fireworks are being used?

The Office of Emergency Management staffs a fireworks report line. That number is 406-258-4850. The public is encouraged to report the use of fireworks. To report a fire, call 9-1-1.

Are public displays still permitted?

The Southgate Mall Fourth of July fireworks display and the Missoula Osprey post-game displays are only those permitted. Those events have gone through fire marshal’s office for approval. The displays are provided by people who are licensed, bonded and insured. They have a pre-approved safety plan in place. The public is encouraged to attend those shows.

What are the publics’ ramifications if Stage 1 Restrictions are ignored?

Violation of these restrictions is a misdemeanor offense. Violators are subject to imposition of reimbursement for costs incurred for fire suppression activities resulting from prohibited activities.

Who is held financial responsible for a fire under Stage 1 Restrictions?

Stage 1 Restrictions prohibit all fireworks and create severe restrictions on campfires and smoking. Stage 1 Restrictions also mean that responding agencies can hold an individual that starts a fire as a result of fireworks financially liable for the costs of fighting the fire.

How long does this restriction last?

In accordance with §7-5-104 MCA, a second reading of this ordinance is waived due to the emergency conditions existing in Missoula County and it shall become effective on passage and approval and remain in effect for no more than 90 days.

How can I stay informed?

Missoula County will be sharing all information related to Stage 1 restrictions with the media and on our Twitter and Facebook pages. We encourage the public to check with these resources and share information to keep our community updated.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has a helpful website if you’re interested in learning more about Stage 1 and 2 fire restrictions: http://fwp.mt.gov/news/drought/definitions.html.