New Mexico Lifts Statewide Fire Restrictions; Village of Ruidoso Remains at Level I

Public Safety

Sep 28

September 28, 2026 (RUIDOSO, NM) — The New Mexico State Forester has rescinded statewide fire restrictions after recent rainfall has reduced wildfire threat across New Mexico. The Village of Ruidoso remains under Level I Fire Restrictions, and the state action does not change restrictions within Village limits.

The New Mexico Forestry Division announced the change September 28, citing late-season precipitation that has helped reduce the potential for wildfire spread. Since September 1, New Mexico has received 236% of average rainfall for the month; however, year-to-date precipitation remains well below average.

What This Means in Ruidoso

Level I is the Village of Ruidoso’s baseline fire restriction level and remains in effect within Village limits.

Under the current Level I restrictions:

Outdoor cooking is permitted on all types of appliances, including charcoal.
Commercial fire pits may be used only when the Fire Marshal specifically approves them.
Non-commercial fire pits and campfires are prohibited unless specifically permitted.
Fireworks are prohibited.

Residents and visitors should continue to use caution with outdoor activities that could create sparks or flames.

The State Forestry Division is also urging continued vigilance during the fall burning season. Equipment use, debris burning, and improper disposal of hot ashes have been among the common causes of human-caused wildfires in New Mexico this year.

Fire Restrictions Vary by Jurisdiction

Ruidoso is surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest and other public lands where fire restrictions and closures may differ from those within Village limits. State, federal, Tribal, county, and municipal agencies establish restrictions for the lands under their respective jurisdictions.

Before building a fire, cooking outdoors, burning debris, or conducting other activities that could produce sparks or flames, residents and visitors should check the current restrictions for the specific location.

For restrictions within the Village of Ruidoso:

https://www.ruidoso-nm.gov/fire-restrictions

For New Mexico state fire restrictions and statewide restriction information:

https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/sfd/find-current-fire-restrictions/

For Lincoln National Forest alerts, closures, restrictions, and current conditions:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/alerts

Conditions and restrictions can change. Check the appropriate agency information before heading outdoors.

Source document(s): State forester lifts fire restrictions (PDF)