Fire restrictions raised in Los Padres National Forest

GOLETA, Calif. - Fire restrictions at Los Padres National Forest have been raised due to what officials say are extreme fire conditions.

Los Padres National Forest officials have announced Extreme Fire Danger restrictions will go into effect immediately and remain in place through the end of the year.

Restrictions in the forest include the following prohibited activities:

• Wood and charcoal fires in all areas of Los Padres National Forest, including designated Campfire Use sites.  People with a valid California Campfire Permit are allowed to use portable stoves and lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel only within the Designated Campfire Use Sites.
    
• Recreational target shooting in all areas of the National Forest unless specifically authorized by a special use permit with the Forest. Hunting with a valid California hunting license during open hunting season is not included.  

• Smoking in all areas of Los Padres National Forest except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or designated Campfire Use Site.  

• Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order on roads and trails specifically designated for such use. (This restriction is in effect year-round.) 

Anyone caught violating these restrictions could face a $5,000 fine or six months in hail.

For more information about current conditions and safety tips, you can contact your nearest Forest Service office. A list of designated Campfire Use Sites is available on the Los Padres National Forest website or by contacting the your local Forest Service district office.