Ogden City moves to Yellow Fire Restriction status
Photo supplied, Greg Merrill
The Willard Peak Fire in North Ogden rages on the mountainside Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025.While there has been some regular moisture move through the state in the last couple of months, the fire danger in Utah remains extremely high — as evidenced by wildfires that have popped up across the state in recent days.
In an attempt to lower the risks of fire in Ogden, city officials implemented Yellow Fire Restrictions on Monday. Those include prohibiting fireworks in certain areas and establishing ground rules regarding fire-pit usage.
“Wildfire prevention begins with each of us,” Ogden City Fire Chief Mike Slater said in the press release announcing the restrictions. “Even a small spark can quickly become a dangerous wildfire under current conditions. We ask residents to remain vigilant, follow all fire restrictions, and report any signs of wildfire immediately.”
Here is the complete release from Ogden Fire Department:
“OGDEN, Utah — Due to increasingly dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk throughout Northern Utah, Ogden City is implementing Yellow Fire Restrictions effective June 8, 2026. Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution with all outdoor activities that could spark a wildfire and to follow all fire safety regulations.
“The Yellow Fire Restriction status is intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires while allowing certain recreational activities to continue under specific safety requirements.
“Fireworks Restrictions Remain in Effect
“Residents are reminded that Ogden City’s fireworks restriction map identifies areas where fireworks use is limited due to increased wildfire risk. Under Yellow Restrictions:
- “Fireworks are prohibited within designated fire restriction areas.
- “Ignition sources, including fireworks, are prohibited in non-irrigated, natural, brush-covered, or otherwise hazardous areas.
- “Ground-based fireworks may only be used in irrigated, landscaped areas where they can be safely monitored and extinguished.
- “Fireworks may only be discharged during dates and times authorized by Utah law and local ordinances.
“Restricted areas include portions of Ogden’s east bench, areas east of Harrison Boulevard, the Ogden and Weber River Parkway corridors, Fort Buenaventura, open space areas, trailheads, brush-covered hillsides, and other locations identified on the Ogden City Fireworks Restriction Map. Residents are encouraged to review the map before using fireworks.
“Recreational Fire Pits Still Permitted
“Recreational fire pits remain allowed within Ogden City provided they are located in irrigated or landscaped areas and comply with all City fire pit requirements. Residents using recreational fire pits must adhere to the following safety standards:
- “Total fuel area must be 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height.
- “Fire pits must be located at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material.
- “Fires must be constantly attended by a capable adult with an extinguishing source immediately available, such as a portable fire extinguisher, dirt, sand, water barrel, or garden hose.
- “Burning of trash, paper products, or waste materials is prohibited.
- “Fire pits may only be used for recreational purposes.
- “If smoke becomes offensive or a fire creates a hazardous condition, it is considered a public nuisance and must be extinguished immediately.
“‘Wildfire prevention begins with each of us,’ said Ogden City Fire Chief Mike Slater. ‘Even a small spark can quickly become a dangerous wildfire under current conditions. We ask residents to remain vigilant, follow all fire restrictions, and report any signs of wildfire immediately.’
“City officials encourage residents to remain aware of changing fire conditions throughout the summer and to use extra caution when operating equipment, recreating outdoors, or conducting activities that may create sparks.
“Residents can help protect their homes and neighborhoods by creating defensible space, removing dry vegetation, and ensuring all outdoor fires and fireworks are used in accordance with City regulations.
“Additional information regarding recreational fire pit requirements can be found at: www.ogdencity.gov/338/Fire-Pits.
“To view the current fire restriction status and fireworks restriction map, visit: www.ogdencity.gov/343/Restrictions.
“For updates on fire restrictions and wildfire preparedness, visit www.ogdencity.gov or follow Ogden City and the Ogden City Fire Department on social media.”