The Town of Scipio and the Scipio Fire Department implemented an immediate and total ban on all personal fireworks within town limits on June 27, 2026, citing an elevated risk of catastrophic wildfires. The directive, issued by Mayor Kasey Brunson and Fire Chief Casey Draper, follows a state of emergency declared by Governor Cox due to prolonged dry conditions and high temperatures across Utah.
State of Emergency Declared
The ban was triggered by an official notice released on June 27, 2026, which cited prolonged dry conditions and high temperatures as primary drivers for the increased wildfire risk. The town government noted that Governor Cox had issued Executive order 2026-04, declaring a state of emergency due to the imminent threat of devastating wildfires. Under this executive order, regular statutory limitations have been suspended to provide fire officials and local governments with the necessary power to protect their communities.
Scope of the Ban
According to the official public notice from the Town of Scipio, the immediate ban applies to all public and private properties located within the Scipio town boundaries. The prohibition covers all upcoming holiday celebrations until further notice, though officials stated they may reassess the situation as the July 24th celebrations approach. The town noted that multiple close calls had already occurred in and around the community, necessitating these preventative measures.
Prohibited Pyrotechnics
The directive prohibits a wide range of consumer pyrotechnics to ensure community safety. Specifically, the ban includes all class C fireworks, sparklers, Roman candles, firecrackers, aerial shells, and any other forms of consumer pyrotechnics. The Town of Scipio emphasized that the safety of citizens and the preservation of the community must take precedence over traditional summer celebrations.
Enforcement and Penalties
Local law enforcement and fire officials will strictly enforce the ban. The Town of Scipio announced that any violation of the order will result in the immediate confiscation of the fireworks and a minimum citation fine of $1,000. Additionally, the town warned that any individual found responsible for causing a fire through the use of fireworks will be held liable for all associated firefighting costs and damages.
Community Cooperation
The Scipio Fire Department, which operates as a volunteer department, relies on community cooperation to prevent avoidable disasters. In the public notice, Mayor Kasey Brunson and Fire Chief Casey Draper requested the immediate cooperation of all residents and visitors to help keep the community safe. For residents with questions or those wishing to report a violation, the town advised contacting a Scipio town council member or a member of the Scipio Fire Department.
Future Reassessment
The town maintains that the ban is a necessary step to protect homes and the natural surroundings of the area. While the current ban is set for an indefinite period, the town's administration indicated that the policy may be reassessed as the holiday season progresses.
Town Resources and Services
The town's official resources include information on meeting agendas, minutes, and various municipal services. Residents can subscribe to email and SMS notifications to stay informed of town updates. The town also provides resources for water conservation, noting that water is a precious natural resource where every drop counts.
