Zion National Park to introduce campfire and smoking restrictions
Jul 31, 2023, 8:00 PM
Starting Aug. 2, Zion National Park will implement campfire and smoking restrictions. (Dan Bammes, KSL NewsRadio)
(Dan Bammes, KSL NewsRadio)
ZION NATIONAL PARK, Utah — Starting Aug. 2, Zion National Park will implement campfire and smoking restrictions.
According to a news release from the park, camping and smoking near dry plants are prohibited starting Wednesday, Aug. 2. These restrictions will be in place until lifted by the park’s superintendent.
“National Park Service and interagency partners’ wildland firefighters suppressed a fire that burned part of Watchman Campground on Saturday, July 29,” Lyndsay Fonger, Zion National Park Fire Management Officer said in the release. “It’s important that you not smoke near dry plants or build campfires in Zion Canyon to protect people, property and the park itself.”
The release states that setting, building, maintaining, attending or using a campfire in the South and Watchman campgrounds is prohibited. This includes using charcoal in campfires.
These restrictions also apply at picnic areas and permanently improved places of habitation.
According to the release, petroleum stoves and grills are allowed in these areas.
Park visitors may smoke in enclosed vehicles, developed recreation sites clear of vegetation or areas devoid of vegetation with a minimum of three feet in diameter.
Punishment for violating these restrictions include a fine of up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment up to six months.
