Draper City is seeking permission from the Utah State Forester to continue a ban on the discharge of personal fireworks for the Pioneer July 22-25 Pioneer Day period. The city has applied for this extension due to ongoing extreme wildfire danger.
The city expects a response from the Forester by July 22 and will update its status once approval is received.
The tentative plan involves renewing the citywide ban on personal fireworks during the Pioneer Day period because of increased dryness in soil and vegetation. Although rain is in the forecast, officials stated that any precipitation will not reverse the cumulative effects of summer heat, wind, and drought or change the current level of fire risk.
A July 20 order from the Utah State Forester allows cities to determine fireworks restrictions based on environmental conditions within their jurisdictions, granting decision-making authority to the mayor and fire chief.
Prohibited fireworks are defined as Division 1.4G common state-approved explosives under Utah State Code 53-7-202.
Draper City noted that with large wildfires burning across Utah, firefighting resources are strained. The city stated a ban is appropriate to protect lives, property, and personnel. Officials reported there were no fire starts and a substantial decrease in illegal fireworks use during the July 4 holiday period.
