Because of existing drought conditions in southern New Mexico, the Las Cruces Fire Department has determined that it’s necessary to restrict all open burning and fires within municipal boundaries.
The ‘open burn ban’ begins Monday, June 9, and will remain in effect until the Las Cruces Fire Department determines that the fire hazard is no longer a significant threat.
Southern New Mexico, to include the City of Las Cruces, is currently experiencing drought conditions and high heat as indicated by the National Weather Service. Such conditions pose a fire hazard and a significant threat to the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the city.
In accordance with the Las Cruces Municipal Code and the 2009 International Fire Code, the Las Cruces Fire Department is banning all opening burning based on the atmospheric conditions that are creating the current drought.
Open Burning, defined by Section 302 the 2009 IFC, includes: “the burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber.”
The open burn ban does not include road flares, smudge pots and similar devices associated with safety or occupational uses typically considered open flames.
The ban also does not pertain to recreational fires in an enclosed chamber, or the use of outdoor fireplaces, pits or grills. Such fires are still permissible if the chamber, fireplace, pit or grill is fully enclosed and completely contains all flames and sparks.
Charcoal and gas-powered grills can still be used as long as flames and sparks are contained within the chamber.
Information from Las Cruces Police