Phoenix eyes new fireworks restrictions as July 4 approaches
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With Independence Day nearing, the city of Phoenix may limit where people can set off fireworks.
Why it matters: When not used safely, fireworks can cause blazes and wildfires resulting in injuries and property damage.
State of play: The Phoenix City Council on Wednesday will consider barring people from using fireworks within a mile of mountain preserves.
- That one-mile restriction will be extended to other city parks during state-issued fire restrictions.
- Fireworks are already banned inside state parks.
Zoom in: The city is creating an online tool that people can use to see whether their home is within a restricted area.
Violations of the city's fireworks restrictions are already class 1 misdemeanors under city code, but the proposed changes would allow civil penalties of up to $2,500.
- The Phoenix Police Department's intent is to start with civil fines and escalate to criminal penalties for repeat offenders, Lt. Brian Rimsza told a council subcommittee earlier this month.
Threat level: The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management issued a stage 1 fire restriction last week for state trust lands in Maricopa, Gila and Pinal counties, which has since been extended to Apache, Coconino and Navajo counties.
The intrigue: The proposed changes to city code go as far as a 2010 state law permits, Phoenix Fire Department assistant chief Justin Alexander told the subcommittee.
- Cities can't ban any fireworks permitted by state law, including fountains, cones, sparklers, spinners and smoke devices.
- Cities also can't ban the sale or use of fireworks on or around Independence Day, New Year's, Cinco de Mayo and Diwali.
- Fireworks that shoot into the air and explode aren't allowed for consumer use — not that you'd be able to tell during the Fourth of July or other firework-heavy celebrations.
Even if you're using fireworks legally, make sure to use caution.
- Choose safe locations and keep spectators at safe distances.
- Dispose of used fireworks properly — two West Valley house fires that displaced 10 people last year were attributed to used fireworks that had been improperly discarded.
What's next: If the council approves the new restrictions, they'll take effect in 30 days, about two weeks before Independence Day.