The Idaho Department of Lands is urging residents and visitors to prepare now for Stage 1 Fire Restrictions that will take effect throughout Shoshone County, including all incorporated city limits, on Friday, Aug. 7, due to very high fire danger conditions. 

The restrictions are being implemented to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during a period of elevated fire danger. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will remain in effect until rescinded. 

With the restrictions set to begin later this week, residents and visitors are encouraged to review the requirements now and make any necessary adjustments to camping, recreation and outdoor plans before Friday. Even a single spark can ignite a wildfire under current conditions. 

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, the following activities are prohibited throughout Shoshone County: 

• Building, maintaining, attending or using fires, campfires or charcoal fires, except in specified developed recreation sites. 
• Using wood-burning stoves in canvas wall tents.
• Smoking, except while inside an enclosed vehicle or building or within an area at least 3 feet in diameter that has been cleared of all flammable materials. 

The following activities are allowed: 

• Using gas camp stoves, propane stoves and lanterns equipped with an on/off switch when operated in an area cleared of flammable materials. 

Current fire danger in Shoshone County is classified as Very High, meaning fires can start easily, spread rapidly and become difficult to control. 

Violations of fire restrictions may result in fines of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both, as authorized under applicable state and federal laws.

The Idaho Department of Lands encourages residents and visitors to remain vigilant and take extra precautions while recreating, working or traveling outdoors during the fire season. 

Additional information on fire restrictions is available through the Idaho Department of Lands Fire Restrictions Finder.