Teller Sheriff on lookout for burn ban violators

The Teller County Sheriff’s Office is hoping word of the current restrictions on outdoor fires spreads like wildfire. So far though, deputies on patrol have seen numerous violations putting many people at risk.

“Right now, the most common violation is having open fires,” said Corporal Jeff Sanchez, with the Teller County Sheriff’s Office.

A stage 2 fire ban in Teller County puts restrictions on the use of explosives, fireworks and model rockets. Residents aren’t allowed to do any outdoor burning unless it’s in an outdoor fireplace or a designated fire pit.

A stage 2 fire ban does allow residents to use propane-fueled BBQ pits if they are pulled at least 10 feet away from the wall. Chainsaws are also permitted if residents are prepared for the start of a fire. That means approved fire-extinguishing equipment must be readily available. Limited burning is also allowed for agricultural purposes if the move is necessary and the land being burned is completely surrounded by irrigated farmlands.

Teller County deputies are using their down time while on patrol to ensure that the these rules are followed. They believe many visitors may be unaware of the restrictions in place.

“With the conditions we have now my biggest concern is ending up with another fire as big as the Hayman or a fire as the one in Larimer County right now,” said Sanchez.

You can find a link to the full stage 2 fire ban guidelines at the Teller County Sheriff’s Office website or look under the Links We Mentioned section of krdo.com