July 17, 2026 - SONORA, California – The Stanislaus National Forest will enter temporary fire restrictions in high and moderate fire hazard areas of the forest beginning Today, July 17, effective through December 31, 2026.

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With rising temperatures, dry conditions, and recreation increasing across the forest, the risk of wildfires has also increased. These restrictions are an immediate and effective method to reduce the potential for loss of life and property, and to protect the physical, biological, and cultural resources of the forest from fire. 

With the Forest Order, the following activities are prohibited in Moderate and High Fire Hazard Area.

1. Discharging a firearm. 36 CFR § 261.58(m)
2. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, except in the Developed Recreation Sites listed in Exhibit C. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a).
3. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, within an open Developed Recreation Site listed in Exhibit C, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(d).
4. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame. 36 C.F.R.§ 261.52(h).
5. Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device that is properly installed, maintained, and in effective working order in accordance with U.S. Forest Service Standard 5100-1. 36 C.F.R § 261.5(j).

Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:

1. Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order.
2. Persons possessing a valid California hunting license are not exempt from the prohibitions listed above. However, persons with a valid hunting license and hunting during the open hunting season as specified by the laws of the State of California may discharge a firearm at a legal game bird or mammal.
3. Persons with a valid California Campfire Permit are not exempt from the prohibitions listed above. However, persons with a valid California Campfire Permit may use a portable stove or lantern using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel on National Forest System lands within the Moderate Hazard Area.
4. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire -fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
   
   Source: SNF