Utah faced significant fireworks restrictions earlier this year as the state entered the Fourth of July holiday under extreme wildfire danger. On June 25, 2026, Governor Spencer J. Cox signed an executive order establishing a temporary statewide prohibition on personal fireworks through July 5.
Reasons for fireworks prohibition
The declaration was prompted by overlapping risks including record-low winter snowpack, severe or extreme drought, and critically dry vegetation. At the time the order was issued, state officials reported that 376 fires were burning across the state, with at least 273 identified as man-made.
Authority and local implementation details
The executive order granted the State Forester, Jamie Barnes of the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, the authority to impose a default statewide prohibition on personal fireworks during the July 2 through July 5 window. While the order does not ban fireworks sales or permitted professional displays, it allows mayors to designate specific safe areas for use after consulting with local fire officials.
Public land fire restrictions
Separately, Stage 2 fire restrictions applied to many state and federal public lands, including National Forests and BLM lands. These restrictions prohibited open fires, smoking in certain areas, and the use of pyrotechnic devices. Violations on state lands could result in fines up and up to six months in jail, while federal land violations could reach $5,000 and include imprisonment.
Municipal bans across Utah cities
Numerous Utah municipalities implemented complete bans on personal fireworks within city limits. Confirmed bans included Salt Lake City, South Salt Lake, Sandy, Draper, West Jordan, South Jordan, Riverton, Bluffdale, West Valley City, Midvale, and Provo. Additionally, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson issued a countywide ban for cities within the most populous county.
Partial restrictions in high-risk zones
Some areas maintained partial restrictions in high-risk zones. Lehi restricted use in foothill areas and the Dry Creek corridor, while St. George prohibited fireworks in hazardous terrain like dry washes and hilltops. Some communities, such as Stockton, implemented bans extending through the remainder of 2026.
Future reassessment of fire conditions
State officials indicated they would reassess fire conditions before the Pioneer Day fireworks window from July 22 to July 25. If drought and danger persisted, restrictions could be extended.
Authorities emphasized that individuals causing wildfires through negligent or unlawful conduct could face criminal charges and financial liability for fire suppression costs, which had already exceeded $20 million during the season.
