After a very dry year, Maricopa County is lifting its ban on campfires and barbecue grills in county-owned parks and recreation areas.
Starting Tuesday, visitors can again have campfires at any of the 11 parks in the Maricopa County park system, including the popular Lake Pleasant and McDowell Mountain regional parks.
The county had initiated the fire ban in May of this year after a wet winter and dry spring led to a buildup of flammable brush.
County parks spokesperson R.J. Cardin says campfires can only be built in designated fire rings at camp sites.
There are currently no fire restrictions in the Tonto National Forest, either — but the Coconino National Forest remains in Stage 1 restrictions until at least Dec. 18.
