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.
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 currently under Level II Fire Restrictions effective April 6, 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 (Current Fire Level), 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: May 7, 2026
Level I Restrictions
1. Permitted fire pits approved for use (if specifically permitted by Fire Marshal).
2. Outdoor cooking is approved for all types of appliances, including charcoal.
3. Non-permitted fire pits, campfires and fireworks are not allowed within the Village of Ruidoso (unless specifically permitted by Fire Marshal).
LEVEL II RESTRICTIONS
Current Fire Level Effective April 6, 2026
Under Level II Fire Restrictions, the following rules are in effect:
No charcoal grills or outdoor burning stoves are allowed.
Gas and pellet grills are permitted but must be attended at all times.
Smoking outdoors is prohibited, except inside an enclosed vehicle or building, or in areas specifically approved by the fire marshal.
Fireworks are strictly prohibited under state law.
Campfires are not allowed on any public or private property.
Chainsaws and internal combustion equipment may only be used if equipped with a properly installed and functioning spark arrestor.
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.
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.
If you have any questions, please contact Fire Chief Cade Hall at 575-257-3473; Email: CadeHall@ruidoso-nm.gov
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
These restrictions apply within Village of Ruidoso jurisdiction only. Additional restrictions may apply on federal, state, Tribal, or county lands.
Additional State Fire Restrictions
In addition to Village of Ruidoso fire restriction levels, the New Mexico Forestry Division may place fire restrictions on non-municipal, non-federal, and non-Tribal lands statewide. These restrictions are separate from Village restrictions and may apply 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/
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