PLATTE COUNTY – At the recommendation of Platte County fire wardens, a fire ban was put in place by Platte County commissioners at their meeting Tuesday morning, April 15 with resolution 2025.

Fire warden Tony Krotz said he and the two assistant fire wardens considered the past year’s lack of moisture, recent lack of moisture, and the bleak forecast of dry weather in to consideration when making the recommendation to the commissioners.

The fire ban is effective immediately.

Commissioner Steve Shockley asked Krotz if there was a method to adjust the fire ban if we get good rain; Krotz said he wanted to make sure there was something in the resolution to allow for that. The last condition on the fire ban makes a provision for limited burning with favorable conditions, plus approval from the fire warden and the fire department chiefs overseeing the location. If these conditions are met, but the fire gets out of control, the landowner will be responsible for all costs associated with suppression.

Palmer Canyon fire chief Will deRyk was at the meeting, and stated his crews responded to a fire along the interstate over the weekend which was started by the sparks from a chain dragging on the interstate. “Anytime that happens, it’s bad (really dry),” he said.

Details and exceptions to the fire ban can be viewed on the news items at the county website, plattecountywyoming.com, and will be posted in the county courthouse.

Violators can be penalized with a $100 fine and 30 days in jail or both.