The Utah State Forester issued an order implementing a statewide fireworks ban from July 2, 2026, through July 5, 2026. The mandate was established in response to current and forecasted weather conditions and Governor Cox's Executive Order 2026-04, which declared a state of emergency due to the threat of fire disasters during the July fireworks season.
State Forester Jamie Barnes determined that all areas within Utah qualified as extremely hazardous under the National Fire Danger Rating System. The order noted that an unprecedented drought created an unusually high risk of devastating fires resulting from the discharge of fireworks.
The ban applied to all fireworks defined as Division 1.4G common state approved explosives, including within municipal boundaries. This measure was taken in consultation with the Governor's Office and the Department of Public Safety to prevent the ignition of forest and rangeland fires.
Exceptions were made for firework displays and related performances that were licensed by the Utah State Fire Marshall Division and permitted by a Utah municipality, county, or fire district. Additionally, municipalities could establish designated areas for fireworks discharge if they met specific criteria.
To create a municipally designated area, a municipality's mayor and fire chief had to jointly identify the location. These municipalities were required to notify the State Forester in writing with a map or coordinates by 5:00 p.m. MDT on June 30, 2026.
The State Forester's order relied on authority granted by Utah Code to prohibit fireworks in hazardous areas and to extend prohibitions into municipal boundaries during a state of emergency. All other existing laws, statutes, and regulations not in conflict with the order remained in effect.
