Effective immediately, Jeffco Open Space (JCOS) is updating park regulations related to fires and e-bikes that will be enforced throughout JCOS parks.
Fire Restrictions
Due to ongoing high fire danger conditions, JCOS will maintain Stage 2 fire restrictions year-round. This includes:
- No campfires
- No charcoal grills or open flames
- No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or a developed trailhead area that is devoid of all vegetation. Visitors must safely and properly dispose of all cigarette butts
Only devices that are liquid fueled with an on/off switch, such as gas grills and stoves, are allowed. These devices should only be used in developed areas that are completely clear of vegetation for at least a six-foot diameter.
JCOS is committed to keeping our community and parks fire safe. As land managers it is our responsibility to practice proactive fire mitigation in partnership with local fire districts, agencies, and neighborhoods. Current Jefferson County conditions are such that any accidental spark or unattended campfire could result in catastrophic loss and danger for the land, wildlife, and residents. The risk is too great and far outweighs the enjoyment that campfires or smoking within our parks can offer.
The last wildfire on JCOS managed land was on Saturday, December 1 at Matthews/Winters Park on the hogback just north of Dinosaur Ridge. Due to dry conditions, wind, and slope, the fire easily spread uphill. Emergency response was quick and intense, and the fire was controlled before it made it to the top of the ridge.
To learn more about JCOS regulations
E-bikes
JCOS piloted a program for the past year to allow electric bicycles (e-bikes) on Jeffco Open Space managed trails. Based on findings from the pilot program, Jeffco Open Space has adopted a permanent policy to allow electric e-bikes on JCOS trails.
- Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on natural surface trails within the parks
- Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed on paved trails within the parks
This decision was made after collecting visitor feedback, doing extensive research, and working with local bicycle advocacy groups. This decision is also in line with Colorado state regulations, which currently allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on paved trails. In April 2017 Colorado state legislators passed House Bill 17-1151, which defined three different classes of e-bikes, required manufacturers to label e-bikes by class, defined e-bikes as non-motorized vehicles, and allowed the use of Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on bike or pedestrian paths where bicycles are allowed to travel. This bill gives local land management agencies the ability to determine e-bike use on trails under their jurisdiction.
Learn more about e-bikes
Jeffco Open Space was founded as a land conservation organization in 1972. Our mission is to preserve open space and parkland, protect park and natural resources, and provide healthy, nature-based experiences. Funded with a one-half of one percent sales tax, our organization contributes to city and park district projects, has preserved more than 54,000 acres, and manages 28 open space parks and more than 258 miles of trails in Jefferson County, Colorado.