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1. Are fireworks legal in Grants Pass?

The Grants Pass Department of Public Safety wants everyone to have a fun and safe Fourth of July. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.

All Fireworks Are Banned Within the Grants Pass City Limits

Exception

Fireworks are permitted on the 4th of July only between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

Fireworks are Always Banned Within the Wildfire Hazard Zones

See below for maps and descriptions.

• North Grants Pass Hazard Zones
• South Grants Pass Hazard Zones

For more information, go to the Fireworks in Grants Pass page.

2. How can I be prepared before lighting fireworks?

• Use only fireworks legal in Oregon, purchased from licensed outlets.
• Store fireworks out of the reach of children.
• Make sure fireworks are allowed in your neighborhood.
• Always read and follow label directions.
• Place pets indoors. They are easily frightened by fireworks.
• Always have water handy,  a garden hose or bucket of water.
• Light fireworks outdoors on a flat, clear area away from houses, dry leaves or grass and combustible materials.

3. How can I be safe when lighting fireworks?

• An adult should always light fireworks.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Light one firework at a time.
• Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
• Do not throw fireworks or hold in your hand.
• Do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances.
  • Sparklers, considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for the young, burn at 1800 to 3000 degrees Fahrenheit and can easily ignite clothing. Children do not understand the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency.
• Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay.
• Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Place duds in a bucket of water and throw them away.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never ignite fireworks inside a container such as a bottle or can.
• Keep unused fireworks away from the area where you are lighting them.
• Never have any portion of your body over a firework when lighting.

4. How can I be responsible after lighting fireworks?

• Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water.
• Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly.
• Never re-light  "dud" fireworks. Wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.

5. What types of fireworks are the most dangerous?

Over 75% of fireworks injuries are from consumer fireworks legal in many states like firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, fountains, and sparklers. Fireworks injuries are most commonly associated with:

• firecrackers (51%) - illegal in Oregon
• bottle rockets (12%) - illegal in Oregon
• sparklers (7%)

6. Who gets hurt by fireworks, and what kinds of injuries are common?

Who commonly gets hurt by fireworks?

• Children ages 5 to 9  and teens ages 15 to 19.
• More than 40% of those injured are children younger than 14.
• The most frequent and serious injuries are to active participants in fireworks-related activities, not bystanders and audiences.

What kinds of injuries are typical?

• Hands and fingers (29%)
• Eyes (20%)
• Around half the injuries are burns, especially to the face, hand, wrist, or arm.

7. Where are fireworks illegal at all times?

1. The area west of Highland Avenue and Dimmick Street, north of the railroad tracks.
2. The area north of Interstate 5
3. Panoramic Loop area
4. Overland Drive area
5. Haviland Drive area between Cloverlawn and Linden
6. All City parks
7. All Public School Properties
8. Any area posted: "No Fireworks Allowed"

See these maps for more detailed information:

North Grants Pass Hazard Zones

South Grants Pass Hazard Zones

8. What are the penalties for illegal fireworks use?

• Under Oregon law, officials may seize illegal fireworks and fine offenses from a base fine of $75.00 up to $500.00 per violation.
• Grants Pass Police and Fire Prevention personnel can issue citations for the use of prohibited fireworks within the city limits of Grants Pass.
• Offenders can also be held Civilly Liable for any damage caused by a firework and costs associated with a Fire Department response.
• Parents are liable for fireworks-caused damage by their children.

These sections of Title 9 of the Municipal Code apply:

• 9.12.270 - Prohibition of Fireworks
• 9.13.500 - Liability for Fire Response

9. What types of fireworks are legal on the 4th of July?

Any firework that does not explode, fly into the air, travel more than 6 feet horizontally, and/or 12" vertically from the point of ignition.

Such as:

• Cone Fountain
• Wheel
• Base Fountain
• Sparkler
• Hand Held Fountain
• Ground Blooms

Unclassified items, which are not classified as fireworks such as:

• Smoke Bomb
• Snakes
• Party Popper

10. What types of fireworks are always illegal?

Any firework that explodes or flies through the air, travels more than six horizontal feet or 12" vertically on smooth ground, or behaves in an uncontrolled manner.

Such as:

• Bottle Rockets
• Sky Lanterns
• Mortars
• Firecrackers
• Roman Candles
• M-80s, M-100s, etc.

11. What about annexed areas?

Many properties have been annexed into the Grants Pass city limits over the years. It is the property owner's responsibility to know if they are located in city limits and abide by the Grants Pass city ordinances. Please refer to the maps below.

North Grants Pass Hazard Zones

South Grants Pass Hazard Zones

12. How do I keep my pets safe?

NEVER

• take your pet to a firework display.
• leave your pet in the car.
• leave your pet unattended outdoors, even in a fenced yard.

DO

• Move your pets indoors to a sheltered area. Turn on a radio to a normal volume.
• Make sure your pet is wearing an identification tag.
• Consult your veterinarian if you know your pet is distressed by loud noises.

13. Do you have any other questions?

Call the Fire Prevention Office at 541-450-6200.