Campfire and smoking restrictions will be implemented on the Kern River Ranger District, Sequoia National Forest starting Wednesday, May 24 to protect public safety and prevent human-caused wildfires.
Campfires above 4,000 feet are still allowed within the Kern River Ranger District. The Western Divide and Hume Lake Ranger Districts are not under fire restrictions.
The following is prohibited below 4,000 feet except in areas listed as exempt:
- Campfires or charcoal fires, are allowed, with a valid California Campfire Permit, in designated campgrounds and posted as “Exempt Areas” in the Forest Order 0513-17-14, Kern River District exhibit. A list of “exempt” areas is available here.
- Smoking will be confined to enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation sites and other designated areas.
- Lanterns and portable stoves with a shut-off valve that use gas, gelled alcohol, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed with a Campfire Permit. Forest visitors must clear all flammable material five feet in all directions from their camp stove, have a shovel available, and ensure that a responsible person attends the stove at all times when in use.
- Operating an internal combustion engine off of properly designated roads or trails and welding are all strictly prohibited during the increased fire restriction period.
- Fireworks, exploding targets, tracer rounds and other incendiary ammunition or devices are not allowed on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument at any time. This includes sparklers and so-called safe and sane fireworks.
Violation of these fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of no more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or incarceration for not more than six months, or both.
