Park City warns illegal fireworks will likely bring citations

Park City police will issue citations, not warnings, for illegal fireworks over the Independence Day period as officers brace for complaints under overlapping city and state restrictions. The city’s seasonal ban on ignition sources, including fireworks and open flames, runs through Oct. 31, while Gov. Spencer Cox’s temporary statewide fireworks restrictions remain in force through July 5.

The Park City Council approved the municipal resolution to prohibit ignition sources from May 1 through Oct. 31 inside city limits. It was the earliest such restriction the city had ever put in place. Drought, low fuel moisture, hot, dry forecasts and one of the lowest snowpack years on record drove the decision to move early.

Park City police Lt. Danielle Snelson said the department will focus on educating the public and responding to complaints, but when officers encounter illegal fireworks use, the response will most likely be a citation. Police had not yet received fireworks complaints as the holiday approached, but those calls usually rise in the days before July 4 and then spike on the holiday itself.

A 2025 brush fire off Interstate 80 near the Emery interchange in north Summit County burned about an acre before crews controlled it, and youngsters launching fireworks started it. Utah’s wildfire conditions were extraordinary and firefighting resources were being strained, which is why the governor’s temporary ban was announced June 25.

The Utah State Fire Marshal Office allows local municipal leaders to designate limited safe zones if they work with fire officials. The Park City Fourth of July Celebration is still scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2026, with community events and a parade, but personal fireworks remain restricted under the city and state rules.