Fireworks

Fireworks Regulation Information

Citizens wishing to obtain current fire restriction or fire ban information, firework regulations or burn permit information can dial our Fire Information Hotline at 303-271-8200.

How to Report Illegal Fireworks

PLEASE DO NOT CALL 911

Jefferson County Communications Center Authority (Jeffcom911) is urging residents to NOT dial 9-1-1 for reporting illegal fireworks, except in cases of injury or fire that threaten life or property. Citizens are strongly encouraged to download the Jeffcom911 phone app to report illegal fireworks. 

Image of JeffCom.org App to report fireworks online

Link to download the JeffCom app can be found at https://qr.codes/Df8hy1

Once you have downloaded the app onto your mobile device, click the “Report Fireworks” button to submit a report directly to emergency dispatchers at Jeffcom911. This will help reduce the volume of calls received by Jeffcom’s limited staff over the holiday and eliminate any wait times residents will experience while waiting for the next available staff member. Online reporting is also available to residents at www.Jeffcom911.org.

Fireworks Hotline 

Firework hotline 303.980.7340

The Fireworks Hotline is activated seasonally from mid-June through July 4th.

Call the Fireworks hotline (303) 980-7340 to report Illegal fireworks in progress.

Please do not use 9-1-1 to report fireworks, except in cases of injury or fire that threaten life and/or property.

Special call takers will be on duty to take fireworks calls at (303) 980-7340, now through July 4th. Additional staff will be available to receive calls on July 2 - 4th from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.  After July 4th, please call the non-emergency dispatch number (303) 271-0211.

It is Unlawful

  • For anyone to possess or discharge any fireworks, other than permissible fireworks, anywhere in the state
  • For anyone to sell fireworks unless that person is licensed as a retailer, wholesaler or exporter
  • For anyone to knowingly provide or sell any fireworks to anyone under 16
  • For anyone under 16 to purchase any fireworks, including permissible fireworks
  • For anyone under 16 to possess and discharge permissible fireworks, unless that person is under adult supervision

Permissible Fireworks (Unincorporated Jeffco)

Cylindrical or cone fountains, wheels and ground spinners, illuminating torches and colored fire, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellant or toy smoke devices, trick noisemakers, and snake or glow worms are all permissible when a fire restriction or ban is not in effect.

For those that live in incorporated Jefferson County, please visit your city's website for policies on fireworks.

Illegal Fireworks

Any devices or components that, when used or ignited, project or disburse any metal, glass, or brittle plastic fragments. Cherry bombs, roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, shells and rockets, M-80s and M-100s, and helicopters are all examples of illegal fireworks.

A good rule of thumb: anything that explodes or leaves the ground is most likely illegal in Colorado.

Penalty

Any person who violates the laws pertaining to the sale, possession, and use of fireworks commits a class 3 misdemeanor and faces up to $750 in fines, six months in prison, or both.

Check for Fire Bans or Fire Restrictions

Before you light a fuse, check to ensure your area isn’t under a fire ban or restriction. A fire ban can be enacted by your county sheriff and/or the U.S Forest Service when there is a high risk of wildfire. Even permissible fireworks are prohibited when Jefferson County is under a fire restriction or ban. Violating the ban can result in a fine.

If you are in JeffCo’s vulnerable foothills or mountain communities, please consider the lives and property of your neighbors. In 2005, teens playing with fireworks on North Table Mountain ignited a 200-acre wildfire that threatened homes and horse barns and required the services of over 100 firefighters. One errant bottle rocket or firecracker is all it takes.

Tips for Safe Fireworks Use

  • Always read and follow label instructions
  • Have an adult present when children are involved
  • Use outdoors only
  • Always have water and a fire extinguisher handy
  • Never experiment with or make your own fireworks
  • Never give fireworks to small children
  • Never throw or point fireworks at other people
  • Always wear eye protection

Protect Your Pets

According to our animal control officers, more dogs get lost around July 4 than any other time of the year. Keep your pets properly confined to avoid escape due to fear of fireworks. Have your dog’s license and identification up to date so that if your pet does escape, Animal Control can facilitate a quick return.

Better Yet …

Leave the fireworks to the professionals - attend a public fireworks display. Check the local papers for information about public celebrations in your area.

Click here for listing of where to see fireworks — plus laser and drone shows — around the state [info.cpr.org].