As Independence Day approaches, residents across Idaho and Washington need to understand the different fireworks regulations in their areas to celebrate safely and legally.
West Pend Oreille Fire District Chief Jamie Painton emphasized the importance of following state guidelines. “Idaho has laws in place to keep fireworks safe and sane, however, you can still buy aerial fireworks even though they are illegal to light in the state,” Painton said.
Idaho Fireworks Laws
In Idaho, “safe and sane” fireworks are legal to use during designated times. These fireworks must stay near the ground and remain within a 20-foot diameter area. Legal fireworks include cone fountains, sparklers, wheels and whistles, according to the Bureau of Land Management. They must be used only in gravel or asphalt areas away from vegetation and buildings.
Aerial fireworks remain illegal to use in Idaho, even though vendors can legally sell them. Illegal fireworks include bottle rockets, skyrockets, Roman candles, firecrackers, missiles, parachutes, sky flyers and display shells. Fireworks can be purchased from June 23 until July 5. Anyone who misuses fireworks can be held liable for damages, including fire suppression costs, according to the Bureau of Land Management.
Spokane County’s Strict Fireworks Ban
Fireworks have been illegal in Spokane County since 1993. Since the ban took effect, annual fireworks-related fires have dropped substantially, demonstrating the effectiveness of the prohibition, according to local fire officials.
Deer Park Fireworks Regulations
The City of Deer Park has established specific regulations for this Independence Day. Consumer fireworks may only be sold within the city from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 3rd and July 4th. The discharge of legal consumer fireworks is permitted only on July 4th from noon to midnight, according to the City of Deer Park fireworks regulations.
The use, possession or discharge of any fireworks other than legal consumer fireworks is prohibited at all times. The discharge of fireworks on public or commercial property is strictly prohibited, including city rights-of-way, city parks, public school property, public playgrounds and athletic fields, according to Deer Park Municipal Code 8.34.010.
Safe Alternatives: Professional Fireworks Displays
Both regions offer professional fireworks displays on July 4th. In the Priest River area, Chief Painton recommends the Priest River Fireworks display at 10 p.m. at Bonner Park West Dock. Priest River follows the same regulations as the state of Idaho.
Professional shows include:
City of Liberty Lake: 10 p.m. at Pavilion ParkAvista Stadium: After the Indians gameRiverfront Spokane: 10 p.m. near the Clock TowerCoeur d’Alene Waterfront: 9:45 p.m.Northern Quest Casino: 10 p.m. (drone and fireworks show)
These professional displays offer safe entertainment without the risks of injuries, property damage and wildfires. Residents are encouraged to be mindful of their neighbors, pets and local fire conditions while celebrating.
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