Utah Bans Fireworks Statewide Ahead of July Fourth Over Wildfire Risk

Utah Governor Spencer Cox has issued a temporary, statewide restriction on fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, citing what he described as “historic” and “extraordinary” wildfire conditions across the state.

Cox signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency and temporarily suspending state law to allow the state forester to ban the discharge of fireworks within municipal boundaries between July 2 and July 5.

The move arrives as the United States prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its founding, a milestone typically celebrated with fireworks displays. The order reflects the heightened fire risk facing parts of the American West during a dry summer.

Officials framed the restriction as a precaution to protect communities and property during a period of elevated danger.