Park City to enforce fireworks restrictions as wildfire danger remains high

Park City encourages residents to obey the fireworks restrictions this holiday weekend. Photo: Alexander Kagan // UnSplash

PARK CITY, Utah — Utah’s statewide fireworks ban has drawn lots of attention in recent days, and Park City leaders and police say they are prepared to enforce the city’s restrictions.

Park City Police Department spokesperson Lt. Danielle Snelson said the Park City police force will focus on educating the public and responding to fireworks complaints this weekend.

“When officers encounter illegal fireworks use, they will evaluate the circumstances and take the appropriate enforcement action, which will most likely result in a citation,” she said.

Violating Park City’s fireworks ordinance is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail, according to the city.

The warning comes as Summit County remains under Stage 2 fire restrictions and an extreme fire danger rating, conditions that prompted both Park City’s seasonal ban and Gov. Spencer Cox’s statewide emergency restrictions ahead of the holiday. Utah has experienced nearly 400 wildfires that have burned more than 290,000 acres this year, with officials estimating that more than 70% were human-caused.

Earlier this year, the Park City Council approved a resolution banning fireworks and most open flames within city limits from May 1 through Oct. 31, citing wildfire as the community’s greatest natural hazard.

Fire Marshal Cherie Wellmon said the city’s neighborhoods are surrounded by open space and forest, making even a single spark potentially devastating.

“One careless spark can change our community for years,” Wellmon said in a statement. “By making smart choices, we protect our first responders, preserve the landscapes we love, and keep Park City safe through the holiday weekend.”

Officials also warn that the consequences can extend far beyond a citation.

Under Utah law, people who negligently, recklessly, or intentionally start a wildfire — including one caused by illegal fireworks — may be held financially responsible for wildfire suppression costs and damages. The state can pursue reimbursement for firefighting expenses, which can quickly climb into the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.

Communities across the Wasatch Back are emphasizing similar penalties. In Heber City, officials have warned that violating the fireworks ban may result in a $1,000 fine, and anyone whose fireworks ignite a fire could also be required to pay emergency response and restitution costs.

Park City’s restrictions do not apply to permitted gas fire pits, gas stoves, or charcoal grills used according to manufacturer specifications. Property owners seeking exceptions for other uses may apply through the city’s Building Department.

Residents can report illegal fireworks to the Park City Police Department’s nonemergency dispatch line at 435-615-5500. Emergencies should be reported by calling 911.