It might look like fun and freedom, but fireworks in Colorado come with firm rules — and serious risks. Local authorities want to make sure celebrations don’t end with burns, fires, or felonies.

Fireworks are already lighting up the shelves and skies across the state, but the Grand Junction Fire Department (GJFD) has a simple rule of thumb this summer: if it soars or booms, it’s banned. Still, even the legal stuff can be dangerous if handled wrong — especially by kids or under the influence.

If It Shoots or Blows, It’s a No-Go

Forget Roman candles. Ditch the M80s. And if it launches, just leave it to the pros. That’s the message from Dirk Clingman, public information officer for the GJFD.

“It’s pretty straightforward,” Clingman said. “If it goes up or blows up, it’s illegal in Colorado.”

That means fireworks like mortars, bottle rockets, cherry bombs, and aerial repeaters — basically anything you’d expect to see in a professional show — are off-limits for personal use.

Even small violations can carry heavy consequences. Under Colorado law, illegal use of fireworks can lead to fines up to $750 and jail time, especially if they spark a fire. Multiple jurisdictions enforce their own rules, too, making it even more important to double-check local ordinances.

One-sentence heads-up: What’s legal in one city might get you ticketed in the next.

Legal Doesn’t Always Mean Safe

Sure, sparklers and fountains are allowed — but don’t let that fool you. They still cause thousands of injuries every year.

Clingman was blunt: “Don’t misuse the fireworks. Don’t use them beyond their intended purpose.”

Sounds obvious, but year after year, people end up burned or worse by underestimating the basics. Here’s what officials want you to remember:

• Never allow children to light fireworks alone

• Keep a hose or water bucket nearby — just in case

• Avoid alcohol while handling fireworks

• Always make sure fireworks are fully extinguished before tossing them

In 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported over 9,700 firework-related injuries treated in emergency departments nationwide. About 36% were kids under 15. Most common injuries? Hands, fingers, face, and eyes.

One Spark Away from a Wildfire

As temperatures climb and grass dries out, even a legal sparkler can start an out-of-control blaze — especially with the region’s recent burn advisories.

Clingman stressed the need to stay alert: “Even if there are no restrictions at the moment, that could change. Weather conditions matter.”

He’s not kidding. A single ember from a fountain in the wrong patch of grass could cost millions in wildfire damage. And while no county-wide fire bans are active in Mesa County yet, officials are watching wind and heat levels closely.

This isn’t just theory — Colorado has seen it before. In 2018, the Lake Christine Fire near Basalt was ignited by tracer rounds during a fire ban. It scorched 12,000 acres and cost $30 million.

One-sentence warning: Fireworks and dry grass don’t mix — ever.

Rules Across Colorado: What’s Legal Where?

Here’s a quick look at how different cities in Colorado handle fireworks:

So yeah, don’t assume you’re good to go just because your cousin’s town allows party poppers. Local laws matter. A lot.

The Fire Department’s Checklist for a Safer Fourth

Want to stay safe and out of trouble? Here’s what the Grand Junction Fire Department recommends before you strike a match:

1. Buy only from licensed, local vendors

2. Use on flat, hard surfaces — not on grass

3. Keep a water bucket within reach

4. Soak used fireworks before throwing them out

5. Don’t relight duds — wait 20 minutes, then soak them

6. Don’t let kids get near the stuff unless they’re being watched like hawks

Clingman added: “Once the fireworks are done, wait until they’re cool to touch. Then soak them. Don’t just chuck them in the bin.”

One-sentence reminder: Ashes stay hot longer than you think.

No Restrictions Yet, But Stay Ready

Fire officials haven’t imposed restrictions yet this summer, but Clingman made clear: that could change overnight.

“If we do move to fire restrictions, we’ll get the word out fast,” he said. “And when that happens, it’s not optional.”

Mesa County’s Emergency Management team also monitors wind patterns, lightning activity, and drought indicators weekly. All these variables feed into the final call on fire bans.

Officials say if it gets dry enough — and it’s trending that way — personal fireworks could be banned entirely. Even the legal ones.

So don’t let a sudden restriction catch you off guard. Stay updated through county websites, local news, or the GJFD’s social media.