Multiple Agencies Stop Sedona Hills Fire
Monday afternoon, multiple Northern Colorado public safety agencies successfully stopped a wildfire, protecting nearby residents, livestock, and homes from harm.
On May 11, 2026 around 3 p.m., a large plume of smoke in Sedona Hills (Loveland/unincorporated Larimer County) generated numerous calls from concerned community members. First responders found the fire burning toward a ridgeline in an area with light, flashy fuels (dry grasses, weeds, and plant matter that ignites quickly).
Berthoud Fire Protection District and Loveland Fire Rescue Authority assumed joint fire command and the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office led the law branch, managing road closures and evacuations. Deputies also used drone technology to monitor fire behavior and provide additional insight to inform resource deployment. LCSO called for mandatory evacuations in the area surrounding the fire. Notifications went to 734 contacts (devices registered to receive alerts, not individuals or homes). People can sign up for these at www.nocoalert.org.
Two single-engine air tankers and a Type 3 helicopter were ordered. These aerial efforts, which included dropping slurry (fire retardant) and water, helped slow the fire’s spread as crews worked to build and strengthen control lines. The fire stopped at 12.2 acres and was declared 100% contained early in the evening. No structures were damaged and no injuries have been reported.
LCSO deputies learned that the fire was accidentally sparked by an individual performing work on residential property. The man remained at the scene and cooperated with officials. Through further investigation, deputies determined that he was in compliance with fire restrictions and criminal charges were not applicable.
Loveland Fire Rescue Authority remained at the scene overnight and additional crews continued mop up efforts Tuesday. During mop up, firefighters search for and extinguish hot spots to prevent reignition.
In addition to LCSO deputies, BFPD and LFRA personnel, responding partners included Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services & Phantom Canyon crew, Larimer County Rangers, Larimer County Posse, Colorado Division of Fire Prevention & Control, Windsor-Severance Fire Rescue, Front Range Fire Rescue, Poudre Fire Authority, U.S. Forest Service Roosevelt Hotshots, and Thompson Valley EMS.
“Last week’s snow was great, but it wasn’t enough to reverse months of dry weather,” said Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen. “I can’t emphasize this enough – a single spark can cause a wildfire. We all have to do our part.”
For more information about ways to reduce fire risk around your property, visit www.larimer.gov/sheriff/wpp.
