County implements partial fire restrictions

Sheridan County commissioners have implemented partial fire restrictions due to critical fire conditions in the county.

Action was taken on the recommendations of County Fire Warden Chris Thomas and rural fire department chiefs, and the restrictions were effective as of 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.

According to a news release from the county, restrictions are similar to previous years and apply to all open burning outside of incorporated municipalities and federal lands within the county, which may have their own restrictions.

Use of fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited under the county restrictions, which provide guidance for welding, grinding, branding and use of burn barrels.

In response to public comments, the partial restrictions allow for small “recreational” fires at residences with 15 feet of inflammables around the fire. This should allow for a small fire in a green back yard for cooking, warmth, religious, ceremonial or other special purposes.

Restrictions will remain in effect until removed by the commissioners.