County Officials Remind Residents Fireworks are Illegal in County

JULY 3, 2025 |

Photo – Fireworks – Bigfoot99 file photo

Carbon County officials remind residents to leave fireworks to the professionals this Independence Day.

Tomorrow is the Fourth of July. Carbon County Resolution 1981-8 prohibits the manufacture, sale, and possession of fireworks within the county. However, residents may apply for a fireworks permit from County Fire Warden John Rutherford. At the July 1st Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Fire Warden Rutherford reported that he had processed six personal fireworks permit applications.

Traditionally, the county charges a $100 fee to acquire a personal fireworks permit. Fire Warden Rutherford said this year, he waived the fee in the hopes that everyone who intends to hold a pyrotechnics show will submit an application. With that information, Rutherford said he will have a better understanding of when and where fireworks events will take place.

Fireworks were also discussed during the July 1st Rawlins City Council meeting. City Manager Tom Sarvey announced the fire department will stage a Fourth of July show at the Radio Control Recreation Area, on Harshman Street. Sarvey said Fire Chief Allen Robinson cautioned residents against setting off their own pyrotechnics.

Dry weather and high winds make wildfires more likely, and fireworks only add to the risk. At the County Commissioners meeting, Fire Warden John Rutherford said if conditions don’t improve, the Bureau of Land Management will likely implement fire restrictions later in July.

County fire officials advise residents to be safe while enjoying their Independence Day celebrations.