BISHOP, CA August 24, 2021 — Due to increased fire activity throughout California and the northwest, demand for firefighting resources, to protect natural resources and provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Inyo National Forest.

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
• Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame.

Visitors  with a valid California Campfire Permit are not exempt from the prohibitions contained in this Order. However, they may use a portable stove or lantern using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel. Additionally:

• Motorcycles, ATVs, and chainsaws require an approved spark arrestor.
• Fuelwood collection must be done in compliance with the terms of the fuelwood permit.

Resorts, pack stations, recreation residences and other sites operated under special use permit  from the U.S. Forest Service may be exempt from the special orders, as long as any fire activity  is conducted in compliance with their permit and only at the site of their permit.

“Every effort to reduce the potential for new fire starts helps our firefighters, who are working under extreme conditions. Demand for firefighting resources continues to be significant.,” said Lesley Yen, Forest Supervisor.” “Do your part and be part of the solution to prevent unwanted fire here on the Inyo and in California this very difficult fire year. Protect our communities, our firefighters, and our beautiful forests from unwanted fires.”

The following are exempt from this Order:

• People who have a 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.
• Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.

This Order is effective from August 24, 2021, through December 31, 2021 and may be rescinded when conditions warrant.

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News Staff