SANDPOINT — The Idaho Department of Fish & Game is implementing fire restriction on all lands and access areas owned by the state due to risky fire conditions.

The Stage I fire restriction prohibits campfires and stoves outside of designated recreation sites. Fires on private property require a permanent metal and concrete improvement specifically designed for the purpose of containing a campfire or cooking fire, with a clearance of ten feet on all sides that is free of any flammable vegetation. This does not include a metal fire pan.

The Stage I restriction also prohibits smoking unless its being done in an enclosed vehicle or building. However, outdoor smoking is allowed if it’s being done in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is either barren or cleared of all flammable materials. The restriction further forbids fires fueled solely by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels.

The restrictions apply to the Pend Oreille, Farragut, Boundary Creek and McArthur Lake Wildlife Management Areas.

“Dry conditions around the state have made the potential for wildfires extremely high. As a result, IDFG has implemented a restriction on all open fires on IDFG- managed lands and access sites in the Upper Snake, Southeast, Southwest, Magic Valley, Clearwater, Panhandle, and Salmon regions. The use of exploding targets and fireworks are always prohibited on IDFG owned lands,” said Upper Snake Regional Habitat Manager Rob Cavallaro.

IDFG is also asking visitors to these lands to be cautious of the potential for fires caused by other sources as well.

Anyone with questions should contact the Panhandle Regional Office at 208-769-1414.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.