Battle Creek Fire Department

09/18/2026

CUSTER COUNTY COMMISSION PRESS RELEASE
COUNTY BURN BAN RESCINDED
September 18, 2026
The Custer County Commission Chair has authorized rescinding the Countywide Burn Ban at 8:00 AM on September 19, 2026.
The US Forest Service Stage 2 restrictions are still currently in place.
Despite the lifting of the burn ban, all existing South Dakota Wildland Fire regulations remain fully in effect. This includes restrictions governing the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District and provisions outlined in County Ordinance 20. Residents are reminded that burn permits for slash/burn piles have been invalid for some time and will not be reinstated until at least November.
The Commission emphasizes that it retains the authority to reinstate a countywide burn ban at any time should conditions deteriorate, particularly upon recommendation from fire officials and partner agencies.
Finally, the public is reminded that individuals who start fires are legally responsible for any resulting damage. Residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to educate themselves and strictly adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and safety precautions before engaging in any activity that could ignite a fire.
The Commission appreciates the community’s continued cooperation and commitment to wildfire prevention. Protecting our forests, property, and neighbors is a shared responsibility.

08/15/2026

Reminder the Custer County Burn Ban is still in effect!
See below for additional information-

07/30/2026

Final update-
100% containment on the Bender Fire.

Final Update on the Bender Fire:
The Bender Fire has reached 100% containment and remains at 48 acres. State and local crews will continue to monitor the area over the next several days.

07/29/2026

28 July 2026 Evening Update:

07/28/2026

Please continue to avoid the affected areas in order to allow personnel to conduct operations!

07/27/2026

There is an active wildfire burning at the south end of Bender Ridge Rd. Please stay out of the area and allow ground and air resources to do their work. If you live west of Bender Ridge, south of Battle Creek and east of Triple M Ranch Rd please monitor conditions and evacuate on your own if needed.

07/27/2026

Be aware of fires burning on the eastern border of Custer State Park-

Avoid the area if possible, if you must travel through the affected area be cautious of emergency responders!

07/26/2026

The Custer County Commission passed a Resolution implementing a fire ban beginning Monday July 27th 2026. Please see the attached document.

The United Forest Service will also go to Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Monday July 27th for the entire Black Hills National Forest. Please check with the USFS for what that entails as there are several aspects to it.

AND the entirety of the Black Hills as well as much of western South Dakota will be under a Red Flag Warning through Sunday 26 July at Midnight.

05/16/2026

05/14/2026