Violation of Stage 1 and 2 Fire Restrictions Could Lead to Heavy Fines

CAVE CREEK – Emergency response teams, including firefighting crews and sheriff’s deputies, are well-prepared to handle wildfires and high-water rescues, particularly during the monsoon season. Following the recent amendments to Town Ordinance O2024-05, anyone responsible for causing a fire or operating a vehicle in flooded areas during Stage I and Stage II Fire Restrictions will be held financially accountable for emergency response expenses.

Passed by the Cave Creek Town Council on October 7, 2024, the ordinance specifies that individuals causing fires or driving into hazardous areas could incur costs related to police, firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical services in response to the incident.

Stage I Fire Restrictions, implemented on May 1 and continuing until October 1, are in place due to elevated wildfire risks. The Town has declared its Fire Danger Level as “Very High.” Key restrictions include:

• No fireworks of any kind.
• Prohibition of outdoor smoking near combustible materials, in vehicles, or beyond designated areas.
• Prohibition of spark-generating activities outside enclosed buildings without a specific permit.
• Complete ban on spark-generating activities during Red Flag Warning days.
• No ignition-driven model rockets.
• Ban on flame-based weed removal.
• Camps and cooking fires must always have a responsible party present until fully extinguished.

The Town urges residents to stay informed via its website and social media channels for updates on fire danger and flash flood alerts. Residents are also encouraged to register for CodeRed, an emergency notification service that provides essential information during wildfires or floods. Ensuring your information is current in this system is advisable for optimal safety.