Fireworks are a great way to ring in the New Year, but it is always good to know how and when to safely use them. (Photo by Scott G Winterton, Deseret News.)
PARK CITY, Utah — Just in time for Independence Day, fireworks and non-permitted open flames are banned in Park City.
The announcement comes after the Park City Council decided that the extended drought and dry conditions present too great a risk.
Park City Fire’s Dave Thacker said in addition to the ban, the city is not planning any public fireworks displays this weekend.
“City council adopted the prohibition on June 23 at a city council meeting,” he told KSL NewsRadio. “That was based on, you know, existing conditions and historical conditions. We’ve had drought conditions for the last few years. Based on current conditions, they decided that this would be an appropriate way to move forward.”
Thacker said while he understands why some people may be frustrated, he is confident in the city council’s decision to ban fireworks.
“I think that’s a responsible element on [the] city council’s part too, kind of, make that decision even though there are folks in the community who really do like to celebrate,” Thacker said. “We know that there are those that are frustrated by that, but we’ve taken a step in the right direction.”
He said the danger from drought conditions and possible fire spread is too great.
The ban only covers Park City proper, Thacker said. However, the city does not recommend lighting any fireworks over the holiday weekend due to extreme drought conditions throughout the state.
“There are areas outside of our city limits that do allow fireworks,” he said. “So this doesn’t mean you can’t go somewhere else and utilize them. We’re not encouraging folks to go somewhere else to use them, because definitely, the fire risk is still there.”
Despite extreme fire risk and drought conditions, Park City Fire Marshall Mike Owens said conditions this July Fourth are more favorable than last year.
“We’re asking people to still observe the same rules,” he told KSL NewsRadio. “Fire restrictions aren’t in effect through most of the state. We’re just asking people to be safe. If you have a fire, make sure it’s out. if you’re shooting off fireworks, make sure you have that bucket of water that you can put the spent casings in.”
Owens said if you follow the rules and keep an eye on the kids, it should be a fun, safe Independence Day weekend.
While Park City is not having any public fireworks displays, Canyons Village at Park City is holding Forum Fest.
Forum Fest is a three-day event featuring live music, food trucks, a kid’s area and a nightly drone show.
“A one-day celebration of America isn’t enough,” the Canyons Village website states. “…that’s why we’re starting the festivities early this year and going huge with three days of activities!”
The event is being held from Friday, July 1 to Sunday, July 3. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. on Friday and 12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Learn more about Forum Fest here.
Devin Oldroyd contributed to this story.