News – Sheridan Media
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At the Sheridan County Commission’s regular meeting Tuesday, County Fire Warden Chris Thomas brought a recommendation for them to adopt partial fire restrictions in the county.
He detailed why he was asking for restrictions.
Thomas was asked if there were any changes in this Resolution from previous ones.
He said only the dates were changed, but nothing in the restrictions themselves.
The commission approved the implementation of the restrictions, to become effective at 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 8.
Partial Fire Restrictions Implemented
Wildfire danger has changed with the hot-dry conditions over the weekend creating critical fire conditions and the Sheridan County Board of County Commissioners, based on the recommendations of Chris Thomas, County Fire Warden, and rural fire department Chiefs, has announced the implementation of Partial Fire Restrictions effective at 8:00 AM on July 8, 2026.
Key Restrictions:
- Open Burning: All open burning outside incorporated cities is prohibited. Federal lands within the County may have different restrictions.
- Gas and Charcoal fires are permitted when contained within enclosed grills.
- 15 feet clear: Ensure there is no flammable material within 15 feet when welding, grinding, cutting torches, recreational backyard fires, branding activities and burn barrels. In addition, trash or refuse fires are permitted only between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., in a container provided with a spark arrester (a heavy gauged metal screen with no larger than 1/4-inch openings in the screen),
- No Fireworks: The discharge of all fireworks, including exploding targets, is strictly prohibited unless a Permit for Supervised Public Display of Fireworks is granted by the Board of County Commissioners.
- Recreational Fires: Small recreational fires are allowed at residences, provided there is at least 15 feet of green grass, or an area cleared of flammables around the fire. This provision allows for small fires for cooking, warmth, religious, ceremonial, or other special purposes.
- No Restrictions on smoking, it is advisable to install spark arrestors or screens on cabin chimneys.
The full resolution and safety tips can be found at https://www.sheridancountywy.gov/community/health___public_safety/fire_protection_districts.php .
The restrictions will remain in effect until conditions allow for their removal.
A few good General Fire Safety Reminders:
- Keep fire tools, water, and extinguishers nearby during fire-risk activities.
- Ensure all fires are fully extinguished before leaving.
- Avoid activities that could create sparks:
- Don’t park on dry grass.
- Check trailer brakes, bearings, and adjust chains so they don’t drag.
- Do not use metal jacket ammunition which can spark when it ricochets.
- Have a fire extinguisher or water sprayer readily available on equipment when cutting and baling hay. (this precaution has saved more than one baler)
Your cooperation is vital in preventing wildfires and ensuring the safety of our community.
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Last modified: July 8, 2026