Fire restrictions - If somewhere is subject to a STAGE 1 closure, you *must* check every day, the day you're shooting, for a "red flag warning". BLM does not announce that themselves. The weather service does. STAGE 2 closure means absolutely no target shooting until October 29 *unless* the BLM announced they are prematurely lifting those restrictions. That is historically unlikely.
Map of stage I and II Fire restrictions in SoCal. you can find maps like this for other parts of CA too when the BLM announces the seasonal restrictions - https://www.blm.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2026-04/2026_fire_restrictions_map_508.pdf
Fire prevention order basically explaining that map in words, slightly confusing. Please note the part at the end "all BLM public lands within the CDD not in stage II restrictions as described above shall be under stage I restrictions". https://www.blm.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2026-04/2026_CDD_Seasonal_Fire_Restrictions_508.pdf
Explaining the rules between stage 1 and stage 2 closure , target shooting ok on stage 1 land as long as it is not a "red flag day". Use the little map of CA to find the field office relevant to you and click their tab to check specifics. If you live in LA or San Bernardino county, it's the Ridgecrest Field Office - https://www.blm.gov/programs/fire/regional-info/california/fire-restrictions
BLM announcement of seasonal restrictions, general announcement that links to all the more specific pages I have included. again, this is specific to central/southern CA, sorry if you live in NorCal. I'm sure the same info is available- https://www.blm.gov/announcement/blm-announces-seasonal-fire-restrictions-southern-california
I like to do my target shooting outdoors, I have done my research and I care about this a lot. Please add your own info or insights in the comments or correct me and I'll edit the post. i have seen a lot of arguing and discussion about these rules the last couple weeks and I think it's bes to get our info straight from the source Let's shoot safely and give 2A users a good name.