Forest Service News Release
Fire restrictions enacted on Modoc National Forest
Alturas, Calif., July 21, 2026—Effective at 12:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, fire restrictions will be implemented for the Modoc National Forest. These measures are designed to mitigate the risk of human-ignited wildland fires, safeguard natural resources, and ensure the well-being of both the public and personnel by reducing the potential for extensive wildfires.
While lightning remains the predominant cause of forest fires, human-induced ignitions are also a substantial concern. The term “human-caused fire” refers to wildfires that originate from human activities rather than natural phenomena such as lightning. This broad category encompasses various sources, including but not limited to campfires, fireworks, vehicles (e.g., cars and ATVs), lawnmowers, and power lines.
“We thank our visitors and users for their compliance with these restrictions. This order currently extends through Oct31. If we receive adequate fall moisture, we will consider ending the restrictions early to enhance hunting season.” Said Forest Supervisor Chris Bielecki
Further information on preventing wildland fires is available online at
https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prevent-wildfire/one-less-spark-campaign/.
Modoc National Forest Fire Restrictions include:
• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire, except in the South Warner Wilderness and Designated Recreation Sites that will be listed at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/modoc/alerts
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or a building, within the Designated Recreation Sites 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 open flame.
• Operating an internal combustion engine, except on National Forest System roads or trails, or within the Designated Recreation Sites listed at the link above.
Exemptions to these restrictions include:
• Lanterns or portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid with a valid free California campfire permit (www.preventwildfireca.org/Campfires/). Barbeque grills using briquettes are not allowed.
• Chainsaws and other equipment within the terms of a valid permit. Fuelwood-cutting permits are available at any Modoc National Forest office. Permit holders are asked to call 530-233-8819 for operational hours for woodcutting before heading out for the day.
For more information, including a copy of the Forest Order and the Designated Recreation Sites (Exhibit A), please visit the Modoc National Forest Supervisor’s Office in Alturas or our District Offices.
These documents can also be found on our Modoc National Forest webpage https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/modoc.
Similar restrictions are in place on neighboring lands. Since these restrictions may vary by landownership, we encourage visitors to contact the specific area they plan to visit for detailed fire restrictions and conditions.
