SALT LAKE CITY — Utah State Forester Jamie Barnes issued a statewide order Friday banning personal fireworks ahead of the Independence Day holiday, following an executive order from Gov. Spencer Cox.
The restriction comes during one of the state’s most severe wildfire seasons in recent history, fueled by historic drought conditions and a recent spike in volatile blazes that have stretched wildland firefighting resources. Barnes noted that dry vegetation has caused fires to start dangerously close to homes and communities.
“One human-caused fire is one too many,” Barnes said, noting that the ban aims to help municipalities ensure residents can celebrate safely.
The mandate stems from an executive order Cox issued Thursday enabling the state forester to prohibit fireworks during the holiday period. Under the order, municipalities retain the option to lift the ban in specific areas designated by local mayors and fire chiefs who evaluate local fire conditions.
Officials are encouraging residents to forgo personal fireworks and instead attend professional shows hosted by local cities and towns.
For those seeking alternative holiday plans, state officials are promoting spark-free celebrations at Utah’s 46 state parks. Visitors who enter a state park on July 4 will receive a promotional voucher valid for one free day-use admission between Aug. 3 and Aug. 6.