Backyard fireworks plans across Douglas County just hit a hard stop. Stage 1 fire restrictions took effect Monday in unincorporated areas, including Castle Pines and Larkspur, cutting off personal pyrotechnics and open burning as wildfire risk spikes heading into America's 250th birthday weekend.
Where the restrictions apply
By order of the sheriff, Ordinance O‑012‑004 puts Stage 1 fire restrictions in place for all unincorporated parts of Douglas County, including the City of Castle Pines and the Town of Larkspur, effective June 29, and remaining in place "until further notice," according to Douglas County. The county's Office of Emergency Management pointed to low moisture, the possibility of high winds, and limited state firefighting resources as the driving forces behind the move.
What's banned
Under Stage 1, open burning of any kind is off the table, and so are personal fireworks and model rockets, officials said. "The safety of our community must come first," the Douglas County Sheriff's Office stated in a press release via Douglas County, noting that fire crews around Colorado are already busy with multiple wildfires.
What you can still do
Not every flame is forbidden. Small recreational fires are still allowed, but only in fixed, permanent metal or steel fire pits at developed picnic or campground sites, and only when properly supervised. Charcoal grills and portable patio fire pits are also permitted when used safely and watched closely, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. Temporary rock fire rings are specifically not allowed, and professional fireworks displays can move forward only if they have proper permits and meet state safety and permitting requirements.
Penalties and the holiday
Breaking the rules is a petty offense that can cost you up to $1,000 in fines plus a $10 surcharge, local officials warned. Residents are being urged to skip the backyard shows and let the pros handle the explosives at permitted public displays. Many towns are still planning organized fireworks shows even as personal fireworks are off-limits in unincorporated areas, as reported by the Denver Gazette.
How to stay informed
If your July 4 plans involved a box of backyard fireworks, officials suggest opting for a permitted municipal display instead and double-checking city event pages for any last-minute changes. Discover DougCo is tracking which local shows are a go and which are canceled. For the latest status and full details on current fire restrictions, residents can visit the emergency management section on the Sheriff's Office site, along with the county information linked above.
