Extreme drought conditions and high fire danger across southern and western Utah have prompted multiple municipalities to implement strict bans on personal fireworks use. Hurricane City, Grantsville, and the Town of Manila have all issued restrictions to protect communities from wildfire risks as 94% of the state faces severe drought.
In Hurricane City, local officials announced a prohibition on the discharge of personal fireworks within municipal boundaries from July 2 through July 5, 2026. The city is following Executive Order 2026-04 issued by Governor Spencer Cox to address extreme drought conditions.
The City of Hurricane reported that human activity has caused 75% of wildfires this year and noted that 94% of Utah is currently experiencing severe drought. Law enforcement will actively enforce the ban, with violations potentially resulting in fines of up to $1,000.
To provide a safe alternative for residents, Hurricane City is hosting its official professional display, titled Stars and Stripes, at Sand Hollow State Park on Saturday, July 4. The city noted that free park entry begins at 8:00 p.m., with the fireworks show scheduled to start at approximately 10:00 p.m.
Mayor Fawcett previously shared in a June 29 update that while opinions on firework restrictions may vary, the city's priority remains protecting lives, property, and the community. The Mayor also noted that officials would continue to monitor conditions and communicate any changes if circumstances improved before July 24.
Grantsville City has implemented a similar ban on personal fireworks in accordance with Governor Cox's Executive Order addressing Utah's historic wildfire conditions. The city stated that the temporary restrictions are intended to reduce wildfire risk and protect residents, first responders, businesses, and surrounding wildland areas during this period of extreme fire danger.
Grantsville officials are encouraging residents to attend the Grantsville City Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular at Cherry Street Park on Saturday, July 4. The display is scheduled for 10:00 p.m., weather permitting, and features a show choreographed to music. Viewing areas include Cherry Street Park, Grantsville High School, and other approved locations.
In the Town of Manila, officials issued a fireworks restriction notice due to record dry vegetation, high winds, and extreme fire danger. The town's restrictions are highly specific, prohibiting all fireworks with the exception of sparklers, bloom fireworks, and spinners.
Beyond fireworks, the Town of Manila has prohibited open fires, except for code-compliant residential fire pits, and has banned smoking in any area containing dry vegetation. Other restrictions include a ban on cutting, welding, or grinding in dry areas, as well as the prohibition of using motorized equipment, such as chainsaws or ATVs, without an approved spark arrestor. Additionally, the town prohibits the use of any fireworks purchased outside the State of Utah.
Violating these ordinances in Manila may result in fines of up to $1,000 or six months in jail.
The heightened fire danger is part of a broader period of environmental concern across the region. In Hurricane City, Mayor Fawcett also provided updates on other municipal matters in late June, including the progress of the Veterans Memorial Park project and recent construction on 700 West, which had required temporary road closures for paving.
In addition to fire safety, Hurricane City officials issued a community alert in late June regarding an increase in vandalism and malicious damage to local parks. The city encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to the non-emergency dispatch line.
As Utah enters the peak of summer, municipal leaders across the state are emphasizing collective responsibility. From the prohibitions in Manila to the organized displays in Grantsville and Hurricane City, the focus remains on preventing the sparks that could ignite the drought-stricken landscape.
