LOGAN — Neighboring municipalities in northern Cache Valley have agreed to allow personal fireworks but in scaled-back boundaries and strict parameters ahead of the Independence Day holiday, pointing to extreme wildfire dangers across Utah.
The individual declarations from Richmond, Smithfield, and Hyde Park follow an executive order by Gov. Spencer Cox that establishes temporary statewide restrictions from July 2 through July 5, giving local leaders the flexibility to define safer, limited discharge zones.
In both Richmond and Smithfield, city councils and mayors worked alongside Fire Chief Jeremy Hunt to significantly diminish traditionally approved fireworks maps. In both communities, the permitted discharge zones have been pulled entirely away from dry mountain benches, local structures, and agricultural fields.
Richmond Mayor Jeffrey D. Young and Smithfield Mayor Aaron Rudie warned that violators face fines of up to $1,000 and civil liability for any fire suppression costs or property damage. Smithfield will also deploy an increased public safety presence to enforce the boundaries.
In Hyde Park, Mayor Bryan L. Cox announced targeted restrictions based on local fire department recommendations.
From July 2 through July 5, fireworks are completely banned between 100 East and 400 East. A localized safety zone has been established extending west of 100 East to 200 West, limited strictly to established residential developments.
Hyde Park will host a commercial fireworks show July 18 on Center Street for a city celebration.
Across all three communities, officials are pleading with residents to prioritize safety by adhering to state and local codes:
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Always keep a connected garden hose or water source ready.
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Never leave fireworks unattended and fully extinguish all debris.
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Maintain constant adult supervision over children and pets.
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Refrain from lighting any explosives on dry grass or near open brush.