Fire Risk Safety Reminders

City of Hood River officials thank the community for celebrating the 4^th of July holiday safely. The area’s recent history of wildfires make this time of year particularly risky for the public and for emergency responders. Community members should be aware of fireworks restrictions in Oregon and the City of Hood River, and observe all safety guidelines to reduce risks of wildfires.

During Fire Season, please observe all restrictions as noted by the State of Oregon: Restrictions & Closures.

City Ordinance 2047 prohibits the discharge of fireworks after July 15^th until November 15^th. From November 16^th – July 14^th, use of fireworks are allowed with exceptions for fire emergencies or burn bans as declared by the City of Hood River Fire Chief.

“This local ordinance is a result of heightened fire risk locally during our traditional fire season,” Fire Chief Damian Leonard explained. “Natural high winds in the area, warm temperatures and drier conditions intensify dangers, raising threats even in areas that may seem harmless. Please observe regulations to keep our local first responders safe and ready to respond to emergencies if needed.”

If you intend to use fireworks around the Fourth of July, keep them legal and use them safely. Oregon law bans fireworks that fly, explode, or travel on the ground more than six feet – this includes bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers and M80s. To be legal, purchase all fireworks at a licensed Oregon firework stand.  Fireworks purchased by mail order, or in the State of Washington, or at a Native American reservation may be illegal in our state.

A 2018 fireworks ordinance adopted by City Council permits the sale of fireworks within City limits only from June 23^rd through July 7^th. City Ordinance 2047 specifically prohibits the discharge of fireworks after July 15^th until November 15^th. From November 16^th – July 14^th, use of fireworks are allowed with exceptions for fire emergencies or burn bans as declared by the City of Hood River Fire Chief.

Oregon State Law allows local government to prohibit or exercise limitations on fireworks sales and use. For further information, contact Hood River Fire & EMS at 541-386-3939.