fire restrictions

Question

During times of level 2 fire restrictions, are propane firepits allowed? I'm getting mixed information when googling the specifics of the fire restrictions.

Thank you

M & M

Answer

Good question. Based on Mesa Verde National Park’s own fire restriction orders, yes, propane (LPG) devices are generally allowed — but only under certain conditions during higher fire restriction stages.

Here are the relevant details, caveats, and what “propane firepit” means in the context of Mesa Verde NP’s Stage 2 fire restrictions:

The park’s Stage 2 Fire Restriction Order, effective as of August 8, 2025, prohibits “building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove.”
However, the same order allows “liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fueled devices that can be turned on and off, such as stoves, lanterns, or heating devices,” *but only if* they are UL-listed for fire safety, and used in an area cleared of flammable materials.
The order specifies that the device must be placed in an area “barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within 3 feet of the device.”
The more general “Fire Restrictions” page for Mesa Verde states that “stoves and equipment fueled by petroleum or liquid propane gas (LPG) fuels are allowed.”

What this means for a propane firepit (or “portable propane fire ring / pit”):

Permitted under Stage 2, but only if it's a *UL-listed device* that can be *turned off quickly.* Many propane firepits meet this criterion, but you’ll want to double-check the model.
You must site the device carefully — clear all flammable material (grass, twigs, brush) from at least a 3-foot radius around it, including overhead hazards.
Do not assume you can use an open wood campfire, or charcoal / wood-burning stove — these are explicitly banned under Stage 2.
Exercise *extreme caution*. Even though propane devices are allowed, the point of the restriction is to minimize wildfire risk — so always have a way to extinguish or quickly turn off the device, and never leave it unattended.

If you’re still seeing mixed information online, that’s likely because fire restriction “stage names” and rules vary by jurisdiction (federal, state, county), and some sources may refer to local (county) fire bans rather than the park’s own orders.

My recommendation:

Bring a UL-listed propane firepit or heater with an on/off valve. That gives you the best shot of being compliant during Stage 2.
When you set it up, clear the area thoroughly. Use a rock pad, bare soil, or gravel if possible.
Check in at the ranger station or visitor center when you arrive: ask whether Stage 2 restrictions are currently active (they can change) and whether there are any *additional site-specific rules*.

In summary: yes — propane firepits (or similar LPG devices) are allowed under Mesa Verde’s Stage 2 restrictions, as long as they are approved types, can be turned off, and are used safely in a cleared area per the park’s fire-restriction order.

Hope that clears things up. Enjoy your trip (and stay fire safe)!