The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department will begin its annual fire ban on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

The annual fire ban for the Phoenix City Parks and Recreation Department will come into effect on the same day.

The annual fire ban date is consistent with fire regulations in the Air Quality Sector. Under these regulations, outdoor fires are prohibited between May 1 and September 30th in areas that include all Maricopa County regional parks.

“In 2024, Maricopa County received 4.54 inches of rain, well below the average annual rainfall of 7.36 inches,” said Jennifer Waller, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Director. “The park is high and vigilant as summer heat is quickly approaching and vegetation is dry. Our teams can implement temporary firefighters due to strong winds or poor air quality to ensure public safety and protect park resources.

Due to fire bans, campfires, fire holes and charcoal grills are not permitted. However, it is still acceptable to use gas/propane grills in designated areas such as semi-developed and developed campsites. Campfires along the Lake Pleasant Regional Park coastline are prohibited. Anyone who violates the fire ban may be quoted against Park Rules R-113.

Additionally, smoking is prohibited in Maricopa County regional parks, except in enclosed vehicles and campers. Be responsible and make sure all cigarettes are properly wiped out and placed in garbage containers.

September 30th is the date for the traditional fire-free lift, but it can be extended. Park staff monitor precipitation and vegetation conditions over the summer and determine whether extensions are necessary to ensure visitors’ safety and protect the park.

Contact the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department at (602) 506-2930, or www.maricopa.gov/parks For more information.

Additional information here.

Read detailed stories in the Phoenix area about Z.com’s signal.