Fire Restrictions in the Town of Superior
Published on September 10, 2026
As of 1 p.m. on Sept. 9, 2026, fire restrictions have been rescinded in the Town of Superior. This decision is in alignment with Boulder County, based on improved weather conditions, reduced fire danger, and increased availability of firefighting resources.
While conditions have improved, residents and visitors should continue to exercise caution with any activity that could ignite a wildfire. Please follow safe burning practices and remain aware of changing weather and fire conditions.
Continue reading to learn more about how the Town determines fire restrictions and what is allowed and prohibited in each stage of restriction.
To help protect the community, the Town may put fire restrictions in place when conditions such as dry vegetation, heat, low humidity, and high winds raise the risk of wildfire. Restrictions limit activities that could start a fire while letting many everyday activities continue when done safely. They protect residents, visitors, homes, businesses, and open space.
The Town Manager sets restrictions under the Superior Municipal Code, declaring each stage and holding the authority to raise, lower or lift restrictions as conditions change.
Current Status
Sept. 10, 2026: NONE
There are currently no fire restrictions in the Town of Superior. Please use care on hot, dry, or windy days.
Find a breakdown of the Town's rules at each stage below. When in doubt, consider Superior’s Switch, Not Spark Test.
Superior's Switch, Not Spark Test
✅ If you can quickly shut it off with a switch or valve, it's generally allowed in a safe and cleared area.
❌ If it makes a spark or flame by burning wood, charcoal, or any solid fuel, it's generally not allowed when the Town is under fire restrictions.
When in doubt, be a good neighbor and don't risk it.
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No Fire Restrictions
✅ Recreational fires, fire pits, and charcoal and wood grills: Allowed when used safely
✅ Gas and propane devices: Allowed
✅ Personal fireworks: Sparklers and fountains allowed
✅ Open burning: Allowed with permit
❌ Fireworks that explode or leave the ground: Never allowed except for professional fireworks displays permitted by the Town.
❌ Open burning during a Red Flag Warning or high wind event: Prohibited
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Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
✅ Gas and propane devices with a shut-off valve: Allowed when used safely in a cleared area
❌ Recreational fires, fire pits, and charcoal and wood grills: Prohibited
❌ Personal fireworks, including sparklers and fountains: Prohibited
❌ Open burning: Prohibited. Cleared area required for smoking, welding, and torch work: at least 10 feet
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Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
✅ Gas and propane devices with a shut-off valve: Allowed when used safely in a cleared area
❌ Recreational fires, fire pits, and charcoal and wood grills: Prohibited
❌ Personal fireworks, including sparklers and fountains: Prohibited
❌ Open burning: Prohibited. Cleared area required for smoking, welding, and torch work: at least 30 feet
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a campfire or backyard fire?
Under Stage 1 or Stage 2, no. The Town prohibits wood-burning campfires, fire pits, bonfires, charcoal grills, and wood pellet grills during restrictions. Gas and propane devices are the main exception, described below.
Can I use my propane or gas grill?
Yes, at every level. Grills, stoves, and fire pits fueled by propane or natural gas are allowed when they have a working shut-off valve and are used safely in an area cleared of flammable materials.
Can I use my charcoal grill?
No, not during restrictions. Charcoal grills burn solid fuel and throw embers, so they are prohibited under Stage 1 and Stage 2. A gas or propane grill with a shut-off valve is a safe alternative.
Can I use my Big Green Egg, Traeger, or other pellet or charcoal cooker?
No, not during restrictions. These burn solid fuel and can't be shut off with a valve or switch, so they're prohibited under Stage 1 and Stage 2. A gas or propane grill with a shut-off valve is a safe alternative.
Can I use a tiki torch?
It depends on the fuel. A propane or natural gas torch with a working shut-off valve is allowed when used safely in a cleared area. A torch you fill with liquid fuel and light with a wick is prohibited because it burns an open flame that cannot be shut off.
Can I smoke outside?
Yes, in limited places: inside an enclosed vehicle or building, or while stopped in a cleared area of at least 10 feet (Stage 1) or 30 feet (Stage 2).
Can I use a chainsaw or other gas-powered equipment?
Yes, with precautions, at both stages. You need a properly installed, USDA or SAE approved spark arrester in working order, plus a fire extinguisher and a round-point shovel at least 35 inches long kept with you. Lawn mowers, edgers, and gas trimmers follow the same rule.
Can I weld or use a cutting torch?
Yes, with precautions. Welding and torch work are allowed only in a cleared area of at least 10 feet under Stage 1, or at least 30 feet under Stage 2, with a fire extinguisher on hand.
Can I burn yard waste or have an open burn?
No. Open burning, including pile and broadcast burning, is prohibited during restrictions.
Can I buy or use fireworks?
Under restrictions, no. All personal fireworks are prohibited, including sparklers and fountains. Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are never allowed except for professional fireworks displays permitted by the Town.
What are the penalties for a violation?
Failing to follow the Town's fire restrictions is a violation of the Superior Municipal Code and may result in a fine, jail time or both. Beyond any penalty, anyone who starts a wildfire can be held responsible for the cost of putting it out and for the damage it causes.
Report a fire or a violation
- If you see fire, call 911 right away.
- To report a suspected violation when there is no immediate danger, call the Boulder County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at 303-441-4444.