Did You Know…

That a campfire permit is required on all federal lands – even at the Imperial Sand Dunes (Glamis)? Moreover, you can be cited if you have a fire and don’t have a permit AND a shovel.

“Campfire Permits are required for open fires, such as campfire, barbecues and portable stoves on federally controlled lands and private lands that are the property of another person.”

They are free and easy to get. 

Just go to https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/campfire-permit/ to watch the short video, answer a few questions, then printout your permit. Or save it on your phone.

So why do we need a fire permit where there is nothing to burn? Several reasons:

1. On the East side of the ISDRA (Glamis) near the railroad tracks there are microphyll woodlands. These trees are hundreds, some perhaps thousands, of years old. The current extended dry period makes them even more vulnerable than in wet years. Awareness that the fire permit video provides can help preserve them.
2. By the definition above:  “Campfire Permits are required for open fires, such as campfire, barbecues and portable stoves on federally controlled lands…” Because the Bureau of Land Management (a Federal Bureau) manages the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (Glamis, ISDRA) the ISDRA, by definition, is federally controlled land.
3. PM 10 is an issue. Air quality is an issue at the ISDRA. Anti-access groups are trying to use this against us. The permits can be denied for reasons of air quality. Burn permits (link on same landing page) are even more restrictive: Burning can only be done on permissive burn days. Burning permits are only valid on “Permissive Burn Days” as determined by the State Air Resources Board or the local air district. To find out if it is a Burn Day, visit the Air Resources Board website to obtain the proper contact for your local air quality district.
4. Let's say a LEO visits your camp and you have a permit. It shows that you are trying to follow the rules. It shows your attitude. As we all know, attitude plays a big role when dealing with law enforcement. Having your permit and shovel can go a long towards your encounter with law enforcement being positive rather than negative.

Vincent Brunasso – ASA Co-Founder

Desert rat since early 60's - duner since 1980. Self employed from age 20 on -- focus on real estate. Started Glamis On Line website in 1998 to bring awareness of rules, safety, and land closure issues pertaining to ISDRA.