VILLAGE OF RUIDOSO FIRE RESTRICTIONS

Stay informed on the latest fire restrictions and safety guidelines in Ruidoso, NM. Learn about current fire danger levels, prohibited activities, and emergency preparedness tips to help protect our community and natural resources. Updated regularly to ensure residents and visitors have the most accurate and timely information.

Questions? Contact Fire Chief Cade Hall at 575-257-3473 or CadeHall@ruidoso-nm.gov

The Lincoln National Forest (LNF) Fire Danger Rating reflects current wildfire risk. It is separate from Village of Ruidoso fire restrictions, which determine what activities are allowed within Village limits.

Current Fire Restrictions Summary

The Village of Ruidoso is under Level I Fire Restrictions effective at 10:00 AM MDT on July 20, 2026. Campfires, fireworks, charcoal grills, and outdoor smoking are prohibited. Gas and pellet grills are permitted if attended at all times. Fire pit permits are temporarily suspended, and citations will be issued for violations.

Click to read Level I, Level II, and Level III restrictions.

Citations will be issued — no exceptions — no warnings. If you hear the sirens, please turn your radio station to FM 99.1/AM 1490 immediately for further instructions. Thank you for your cooperation.

Last Updated: July 20, 2026

Fire Restrictions Beyond Village Limits

The Village of Ruidoso’s fire restrictions apply only within Village limits.

If you’re traveling or recreating outside the Village, different restrictions may be in effect on federal, state, Tribal, or county lands. Before heading out, check the current restrictions for the area you’ll be visiting.

State Fire Restrictions

The New Mexico Forestry Division may issue fire restrictions for non-municipal, non-federal, and non-Tribal lands throughout the state. These restrictions are separate from Village of Ruidoso regulations and may differ depending on your location.

For current statewide restrictions, exceptions, and detailed guidance, visit the New Mexico Forestry Division fire restrictions page. https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/sfd/forestry-news/

Level I Restrictions

Effective 10:00 a.m. on July 20, 2026, the Village of Ruidoso is under Level I Fire Restrictions. 

  1. Commercial fire pits are authorized for use (if specifically approved by the Fire Marshal).

  2. Outdoor cooking is permitted on all types of appliances, including charcoal.

  3. Non-commercial fire pits, campfires, and/or fireworks are not allowed within the Village of Ruidoso unless specifically permitted by the Fire Marshal. 

Please Be Responsible and Firewise

  • Citations will be given for improper cigarette disposal.

  • Citations will be issued — no exceptions — no warnings.

  • The Ruidoso Fire Department will promptly notify the public of any changes.

  • Thank you for your cooperation.

Download Level I restrictions.

Level II Restrictions

Under Level II Fire Restrictions, the following rules are in effect:

  1. No charcoal grills or outdoor burning stoves are allowed.

  2. Gas and pellet grills are permitted but must be attended at all times.

  3. Smoking outdoors is prohibited, except inside an enclosed vehicle or building, or in areas specifically approved by the fire marshal.

  4. Fireworks are strictly prohibited under state law.

  5. Campfires are not allowed on any public or private property.

  6. Chainsaws and internal combustion equipment may only be used if equipped with a properly installed and functioning spark arrestor.

  7. Welding and open-flame torches require a valid permit from the fire marshal; however, all permits are suspended during high wind, fire watch, or red flag conditions.

  8. All fire pit permits are temporarily suspended until conditions improve. Permit holders will be notified when restrictions return to Level I, and original expiration dates will remain valid.

Citations will be issued—no exceptions and no warnings.

Download Level II restrictions here.

Bilingual Level 2 fire restrictions graphic prohibiting outdoor smoking, campfires, fireworks, charcoal grills, and unpermitted welding.

LEVEL III RESTRICTIONS

In addition to Level II restrictions, the following rules will apply:

1. Any cooking or recreational device that uses charcoal or wood is not allowed.

2. Gas and pellet cooking devices are allowed but must be attended at all times.

3. No outdoor smoking.

4. Campfires and any other recreational fire devices are not allowed.

5. Operating of chainsaws or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine are not allowed. Contractors refer to Executive Order 2022-02.

6. Welding, metal grinding, hot tar roofing, driveway sealing, oxyacetylene metal cutting, and any other work which produces a hot ember or visible flame are not allowed.

7. Ignition and/or detonation of fireworks are prohibited.

Citations will be issued - NO EXCEPTIONS, NO WARNINGS

 If you have any questions, please contact Fire Chief Cade Hall at 575-257-3473; Email: CadeHall@ruidoso-nm.gov

Bilingual Level 3 fire restrictions graphic prohibiting hot work, outdoor smoking, and operation of small combustion-engine equipment.

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