In response to the increasing potential for a wildland fire to start, Los Padres National Forest officials have announced that fire restrictions will be raised throughout the forest effective June 29.

The restrictions will affect the use of campfires, stoves, smoking materials, and internal combustion engines, and will remain in effect until the end of fire season in late autumn.
 
The following restrictions will be in effect starting Saturday:

» No open fires, campfires or charcoal fires will be permitted outside of developed recreation sites or designated Campfire Use Sites (list attached), even with a valid California Campfire Permit.

Lanterns and portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel will be permitted, but only with a valid California Campfire Permit, which are available free-of-charge on the forest website and at any U.S. Forest Service office.

Forest visitors must clear all flammable material for 5 feet in all directions from their camp stove, have a shovel available, and ensure a responsible person attends the stove at all times during use.

» Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or a designated Campfire Use Site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

» Internal combustion engines may be operated only on roads or designated trails. This restriction is in effect year-round. Please make sure your engine is tuned, operating properly, and has an approved spark arrester.

» Fireworks — even the “safe and sane” variety — are not permitted at any time or in any location within the forest,

For a list of Developed Recreation Sites and Campfire Use Sites in Los Padres National Forest, or further information regarding Fire-Safe Camping, visit www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf or contact the U.S. Forest Service district office nearest you.

— Jennifer Gray for Los Padres National Forest.