Heading into July 4th, fireworks restrictions expand across Summit County

An eagle lights up the sky in a drone show held on July 4, 2023 at Canyons Village. Photo: Firefly Drone Shows

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — With the summer heat upon us and spring vegetation drying out, Summit County has increased the fire danger level from moderate to high. The county clarified what that means for Independence Day celebrations and summer bonfires. 

Fireworks restrictions

As fireworks season approaches and fire conditions remain dangerous, Summit County is reminding residents to be familiar with existing bans in the county. Park City currently has a ban on fireworks, sparklers, and open flames within city limits and unincorporated areas within the Park City Fire District are also enforcing a fireworks ban. Coalville, Francis, Henefer, and Kamas also have fireworks bans in place. 

Park City will once again host a drone show this year on July 4th, replacing the traditional fireworks display. The drone performance is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. and will feature hundreds of drones creating up to 16 different images, lasting between eight and 12 minutes. 

In nearby Wasatch County, areas of Heber, Midway, Wallsburg, and Charleston will be permitted for residential firework displays. Heber will also host a fireworks display as part of their town celebrations. Restrictions will be in place for the duration of the allowable discharge dates, July 2-5 and July 22-25. 

Stage 1 fire restrictions

With fire risks increasing throughout Utah, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions have expanded to include all state and unincorporated lands across Utah as of June 28. There are currently no restrictions for the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest as of June 30.

The following acts are prohibited under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:

• No open fires of any kind except within established public facilities in improved campgrounds, picnic areas -OR- in permanently constructed fire pits at private homes where running water is present.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, trailer or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area that is paved or free from dry vegetation.
• Discharging or using any fireworks, tracer ammunition or other pyrotechnic devices including exploding targets.
• Cutting, welding or grinding metal in areas of dry vegetation.
• Operating a motorcycle, chainsaw, ATV, or other small internal combustion engine without an approved and working spark arrestor.

Any of the above acts is a violation of state law and is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. These restrictions will be enforced by county law enforcement.

Text SCFIRE to 91896 for updates on Summit County’s fire outlook, Red Flag Warnings, fire conditions, prescribed burns & more.