What you need to know about fireworks bans in the Wasatch Back

Fireworks will be restricted statewide this Independence Day. Photo: Kew Li Wen // UnSplash

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Fourth of July celebrations across the Wasatch Back will look different this year as drought conditions and extreme wildfire danger have prompted sweeping fireworks bans throughout the region.

Following Gov. Spencer Cox’s statewide emergency declaration and the state forester’s ban on fireworks on all state and unincorporated lands, local governments have adopted additional restrictions that, in many cases, prohibit all personal fireworks.

Summit County

Fireworks are prohibited throughout Summit County, including all municipalities as well as unincorporated, state, and federal lands.

The countywide restrictions come amid Stage 2 fire restrictions and concerns that even a single spark could ignite a fast-moving wildfire.

While personal fireworks are banned throughout Summit County, the Oakley Rodeo still plans to move forward with its professionally managed nightly fireworks displays over the Fourth of July weekend.

Officials have not announced any changes to the rodeo’s schedule.

Wasatch County

Heber City initially voted during a special City Council meeting to allow personal fireworks at six city parks while banning aerial fireworks and imposing $1,000 fines for violations.

Less than 24 hours later, however, Mayor Heidi Franco issued an emergency order prohibiting all fireworks within city limits from June 26 through the holiday weekend.

The mayor said the decision was made in collaboration with Wasatch County Fire District Chief Hales and reflects the extraordinary wildfire danger facing the region.

“Wasatch County already had ‘Red Flag’ Warnings this year,” Franco said. “The recent rain is not enough. There are stiff fines for using fireworks with this ban. Let’s keep each other safe. Let’s not make our City’s situation worse.”

Midway has canceled its planned America250 fireworks show because of wildfire concerns.

Fireworks bans are already in effect for the rest of Wasatch County and its cities.

Looking for an alternative?

Many cities are moving toward drone shows as a more eco and wildfire friendly alternative to fireworks.

Park City’s annual drone show is scheduled for July 4 at 10:00 p.m. at the Park City Mountain Village base near the First Time lift. City staff say the best location to watch the show is at Park City Mountain. A good view of the show is also available from Park City Golf Course, City Park, and Lower Main Street.

Heber City will host a drone show on Friday, July 3, at 10:00 p.m. at Main Street Park as part of the annual Red, White, and Blue Festival.

Utah State Parks is encouraging residents to celebrate the holiday outdoors instead of with fireworks. Visitors to staffed Utah State Parks on July 4 will receive a “Bounce Back” pass good for one free day-use admission at any Utah State Park between Aug. 3 and Aug. 6.

Officials continue to urge residents to avoid any activity that could spark a wildfire and to report fires immediately.