Fire restrictions increase in San Bernardino National Forest

As fire season begins, the San Bernardino National Forest is implementing seasonal fire restrictions beginning Monday, June 29.

“As California goes into our fourth year of drought, the forest has felt the effects with lower than normal winter snow and rainfall making the forest more susceptible to fire,” said Forest Supervisor Jody Noiron. “Our number one priority on the forest is the safety of our visitors making the fire restrictions in place necessary,” said Fire Management Officer Jaime Gamboa. “The community and all forest users can help in the prevention of fires by being vigilant in reporting illegal and inappropriate behavior within our community throughout the year.”

Fire Restrictions and Guidelines beginning June 29:

No wood or charcoal fires anywhere on the San Bernardino National Forest
Individuals with a valid California Camp fire Permit may use a propane or gas cooking stove
Fireworks are always prohibited on the San Bernardino National Forest
An approved spark arrester is required for any internal combustion engine operated on designated forest routes – these include chainsaws, generators, motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles
Smoking is only permitted within enclosed buildings or vehicles
Recreational shooting is limited to Public Shooting Ranges operated under special use permit only, except those engaged in legal hunting

“The intensity of this year’s first fire has shown the effects the drought has had on our forest. Drought stressed trees, bark beetle killed timber and dry brush due to the lack of winter moisture is leading to a dangerous fire season. These restrictions will ensure that not only our guests and community members are safe during this fire season but also our employees. As the fire season continues we will continue to develop and reevaluate our fire restrictions,” said Forest Supervisor Jody Noiron.”

The US Forest Service will be aggressively citing those who do not comply with the posted restrictions. Violation of these prohibitions is subject to punishment by a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment for not more than six months or both, as Class B misdemeanors under federal law. Persons may also be responsible for resource damage, suppression costs and any injuries that occur if they are found liable for causing a wildfire.

Officials encourage visitors to ‘Know Before You Go’ by calling ahead to the local Ranger Station to check on location conditions and restrictions at the following offices:

San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor’s Office 602 S. Tippecanoe Ave., San Bernardino (909) 382-2600
Big Bear Discovery Center 41397 North Shore Drive / Highway 38, Fawnskin (909) 382-2790
Idyllwild Ranger Station 54270 Pine Crest, Idyllwild (909) 382-2922
Lytle Creek Ranger Station 1209 Lytle Creek Road, Lytle Creek (909) 382-2851
Mill Creek Visitor Center 34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone (909) 382-2881
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center 51-500 Highway 74 Palm Desert (760) 862-9984