Inside U.S. Fireworks Bans As America Celebrates 250th Birthday

While some of us have to only worry about keeping our makeup sweat proof, or how often to brush our hair, others have fires to be concerned with.

Due to the burning and dry heat, American officials have been forbidding fireworks left and right this Fourth of July. America’s 250th birthday has had fewer candles in states such as Texas, Utah, and Nebraska among others. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks started an estimated 34,079 fires in 2024 alone. 

Americans often spend about $2.2 billion on fireworks, it’s something of a cultural event. But with fire warnings, wildfire risks, and ultra-dry conditions like droughts, authorities are urging people to avoid many of the flashy fireworks. While there are tiny amounts like poppers or even the “extended candle” that is a Sparkler, people want the more glitzy ones, and those carry heavier risks. Fireworks are explosives after all, and they can cause plenty of damage. 

That doesn’t mean that the pyrotechnics need to be big to be dangerous. One teeny, tiny ember can do it, so care is needed even when dealing with “tiny” displays. While firefighters typically deal with 840 brush, grass, and forest fires a day, on the Fourth of July, it jumps up to 4,430. A 3,590, or a 527% increase for the holiday according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety. 

This makes it the busiest time of the year regarding fireworks-caused wildland fires, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.

Utah’s government has really taken it seriously, the state’s Governor, Spencer Cox, has issued a moratorium on the use of fireworks from July 2-5 due to the conditions and facing serious wildfire damage. With resources being stretched thin, he had a tough call to make.

“Nothing about this decision was easy,” Gov. Spencer J. Cox said. “Utahns love celebrating the Fourth of July with family, friends and fireworks. I do, too. But this year is different. We are seeing fire behavior that even our most experienced firefighters say they’ve never witnessed before.”

Utah isn’t the only one cracking down. Nebraska has had some strict enforcement as well. A $1,000 fine and cuffs are on the table for rule breakers in Alliance, Nebraska according to News Channel Nebraska. They are currently battling the Log Road Fire. 

Oklahoma has an interesting dynamic between allowance and restrictions as in May, Governor Kevin Stitt signed the “Rocket’s Red Glare Act” which allows for the sale of fireworks all year long as well as bottle rockets.

Despite this, the city still restricts fireworks within its limits thanks to a city ordinance that has been in place since 1912.

“Fireworks are a serious safety hazard to people and property and should be left to professional shows,” Oklahoma City Fire Chief Richard Kelley said.

While no doubt a disappointment to many, it is a necessary step to prevent fires from spreading and prevent even more destruction. Hopefully, a hot dog party with the family, and some dancing will be enough for celebration.