Fireworks
Fireworks Regulation Information
Citizens wishing to obtain current fire restriction or fire ban information, firework regulations or burn permit information are able to dial our Fire Information Hotline at 303-271-8200.
Fireworks Hotline
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.
Updated June 15, 2021: The hotline number is now live. 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 make sure your area isn’t under a fire ban or fire 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 in the event 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.
A 2022 4th of July fireworks display listing can be found here.