Keep it legal, keep it safe: Where you can and can't use fireworks in the Gorge this 4th of July
By Cole Goodwin
To reduce fire risk, some local governments in the Gorge have regulations or bans on the use of fireworks. Those intending to use fireworks to celebrate this Fourth of July, need to know a few things in order to keep it legal and keep themselves and others safe:
Where you CAN legally buy and use fireworks in the Gorge:
The City of Hood River
When: November 16th-July 14th
Where: Within the city limits.
A 2018 fireworks ordinance adopted by City Council permits the sale of fireworks within City limits only from June 23rd through July 7th. City Ordinance 2047 specifically prohibits the discharge of fireworks after July 15th until November 15th. From November 16th – July 14th, use of fireworks are allowed with exceptions for fire emergencies or burn bans as declared by the City of Hood River Fire Chief.
“This local ordinance is a result of heightened fire risk locally during our traditional fire season,” Fire Chief Damian Leonard explained. “Natural high winds in the area, warm temperatures and drier conditions intensify dangers, raising threats even in areas that may seem harmless. Please observe regulations to keep our local first responders safe and ready to respond to emergencies if needed.”
Oregon State Law allows local government to prohibit or exercise limitations on fireworks sales and use. For further information, contact Hood River Fire & EMS at 541-386-3939.
Klickitat County
When: It is legal to use fireworks in Klickitat County on July 4th and New Years Eve only.
Fireworks are banned 363 days a year in Klickitat County… except for on the 4th of July and New Years Eve.
Sherman County
”Sherman County does not have an ordinance on fireworks,” said Detective Travis West of Sherman County Sheriff’s Office. “The county does have a burn ban. The typical fireworks purchasable in Oregon should be fine for folks to use. Where people could get in trouble is with the obvious things… like their fireworks starting a fire that damages property of another.”
Where you CAN’T use fireworks in the Gorge:
Wasco County
Where: It is illegal to use fireworks anywhere inside of Wasco County.
Wasco County has declared a state of emergency due to drought and banned the sale and use of fireworks within the county until authorities deem it safe to lift the ban.
Port of The Dalles and Northern Wasco County Parks and Recreation are reminding all residents and visitors that it is strictly prohibited to set off fireworks at The Dalles Marina and Riverfront Park. The City of The Dalles & Wasco County’s Emergency Declaration banning fireworks includes all Port of The Dalles and Northern Wasco County Parks properties and will be enforced.
Portland and Vancouver
It is illegal to use fireworks anymore inside of Portland and Vancouver City Limits.
The City of Portland and Vancouver have both banned the use of fireworks this year. Although Beaverton and Salem will allow certain fireworks and Gresham still hasn’t decided what its firework policy is.
Learn state fireworks laws.
Oregon
“Keep it legal, keep it safe” is the message from the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM).
“We ask that those using fireworks be responsible when using them,” Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said. “Every year, we see fires started because of improper use or use of illegal fireworks. Our message is to keep it legal and keep it safe as people celebrate the holiday.”
Oregon law bans fireworks that fly, explode, or travel on the ground more than six feet – this includes bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers and M80s. To be legal, purchase all fireworks at a licensed Oregon firework stand. Fireworks purchased by mail order, or in the State of Washington, or at a Native American reservation may be illegal in Oregon state.
For residents who purchase legal fireworks, fire officials encourage everyone to practice the four Bs of safe fireworks use:
Be prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
Be safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks. Never use fireworks near or on dry grass or vegetation.
Be responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Please wait for 15 to 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
Be aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.
Oregon officials can seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a Class B misdemeanor resulting in fines up to $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks may also be liable for damages and fire suppression costs. Parents can also be held liable for damages caused by their children.
Washington
From the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office:
“State licensed retail fireworks stands must be permitted by the local city or county jurisdiction where they are being sold. Items such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, sky rockets, and missiles are illegal to sell, possess, and/or discharge within the state. However, these items are federally legal and are available for sale or discharge on some designated tribal lands.
State and federal laws prohibit items such as M-80s, M-100s, altered fireworks, and homemade devices, as these devices are high powered and can cause devastating injuries.
State licensed retail fireworks stands must be permitted by the local city or county jurisdiction where they are being sold. Items such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, sky rockets, and missiles are illegal to sell, possess, and/or discharge within the state. However, these items are federally legal and are available for sale or discharge on some designated tribal lands.
State and federal laws prohibit items such as M-80s, M-100s, altered fireworks, and homemade devices, as these devices are high powered and can cause devastating injuries.
Never purchase fireworks when:
They are not being sold at a licensed and permitted stand.
The fireworks are missing safety warnings, instructions, or a description of the effects.
The item appears to be wrapped in solid color paper with no markings.
It looks homemade, is wrapped in electrical tape, or the contents are exposed.
It appears to have an abnormal fuse
If you come across a device you suspect may be illegal or is unsafe, contact the local law enforcement agency in your area or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is your responsibility to know the fireworks laws in the area you intend to purchase and discharge in. Always contact local authorities to determine what is legal in your area.For more information visit https://www.wsp.wa.gov/fireworks/ or call (360) 596-3929.”
Breaking Washington’s fireworks laws are a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum of 364 days imprisonment, and/or a max fine of $5,000.
Firework Shows in the Gorge
Fort Dalles Fourth Fireworks
When: July 4th, 2022, First Corps Rock Band will play from 7 p.m. until the fireworks begin (10 p.m.)
Where: Lewis and Clark Festival Park
Hood River 4th of July Fireworks
When: Monday July 4th, 2022 at 10 p.m.
Where: Hood River Event Site
