With wildfire conditions drier than in 2002 – Colorado’s worst fire season – several counties have banned the sale of fireworks, and the governor is considering statewide action.
Larimer, Summit and Douglas counties have enacted prohibitions under a 2002 law that gives counties the same authority as cities to ban fireworks sales in periods of high fire danger.
Previously, cities could ban fireworks sales but counties could only prohibit their use.
“It has been a mixed message for citizens,” said Deni La Rue, Larimer County spokeswoman.
In 2002, Gov. Bill Owens imposed a statewide ban on fireworks sales on the heels of the massive Hayman fire.
Owens has been consulting for several weeks with the state forester on wildfire and forest conditions, his spokesman, Dan Hopkins, said Tuesday.
“The governor is still considering what course of action to take on fireworks bans,” Hopkins said. “I would anticipate that we will have some decisions by the end of the week.”
The use, possession or distribution of all fireworks is illegal in Denver.
This is the third consecutive year that Summit County has forbidden fireworks sales. “Our issue is exacerbated by the mountain pine beetle,” said Sheriff John Minor. The beetle’s devastation of trees “has changed the way we’re preparing for fires. We’re being very cautious.”
Jefferson County commissioners on Tuesday sidestepped a fireworks-sale ban, saying a fire ban imposed June 5 sufficiently stifles the use of fireworks.
“This board is not inclined to initiate a ban on the sale of fireworks,” said Commissioner Kevin McCaskey, who added that fireworks can be brought into the county from elsewhere.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has activated a fireworks hotline, 303-271-8025, where callers can report illegal fireworks, find out where to buy legal fireworks and get information about public fireworks displays.
As of Tuesday, no fireworks- stand permits had been issued by Jefferson County, although there have been eight requests.
The West Metro Fire District, which fought a fireworks- caused blaze last week near Hayden Park in Lakewood, also ensures that fireworks stands meet safety guidelines.
“It’s a tough balance,” said Lt. Wayne Keith.
West Metro officials begin inspecting fireworks stands today on a lengthy list of requirements. The checklist then is taken by the applicants to the county, which issues a sales permit.
Staff writer Ann Schrader can be reached at 303-278-3217 or aschrader@denverpost.com.
