Local State of Emergency Due to High Fire Risk

The Township of Scotch Plains is in a state of emergency in response to a heightened risk of fires, as extreme weather conditions—marked by high winds, prolonged dry spells, and low humidity—have created a critically high fire danger. 

This declaration enables the Township to mobilize resources to protect residents, property, and natural areas.

“Effective immediately, this emergency status allows for an increased allocation of personnel, equipment,and resources,” explained Mayor Josh Losardo. “The declaration also enables local officials to implement temporary measures to mitigate fire risks, which include a ban on all open burning, prohibitions on the use of fireworks and sparklers, and restrictions on certain types of grills.”

Here are the specific restrictions: 

• No bonfires, open burning, and recreational fires (including but not limited to chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and outdoor fire pits) 
• No open flame or flame-producing device, in connection with any public gathering, for purposes of entertainment, amusement, or recreation 
• No discharging of fireworks, consumer fireworks, sparklers, smoke devices, novelties, and non-aerial sparking devices or any other type of pyrotechnic device
• No use of any open flame or flame-producing device in an exterior setting 
• No use of outdoor grills fueled with charcoal or wood 

The state of emergency applies to all public and private land in Scotch Plains and will remain in effect until the risk of outdoor fires decreases.