New fireworks regulations take effect in the city of Battle Ground

The discharge of fireworks is now restricted to two days only: July 3 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight

BATTLE GROUND — Fireworks regulations adopted by the Battle Ground City Council in May of 2018, take effect this year.  The new regulations reduce the number of days fireworks are allowed to be sold and discharged in Battle Ground city limits.

The discharge of fireworks is now restricted to two days only: July 3 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight. The sale of fireworks is restricted to July 1 through July 4 from 9 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. each day.

City Council adopted the new regulations last year after months of discussion and input from the public.  While the new rules were adopted a year ago, state law is such that any new regulation affecting the sale and discharge of fireworks may not take effect until one year after adoption.

Also adopted by the council last year is a provision giving the Fire Marshal emergency authority to suspend or ban the discharge of fireworks should there be a threat to public safety.

Residents can safely celebrate with fireworks by being prepared and using safety precautions. Being respectful of neighbors and surroundings keeps the celebration enjoyable for everyone. Visit www.cityofbg.org/fireworks for tips on how to celebrate with fireworks safely and responsibly. The use of fireworks in city parks and on school district property is prohibited.

Regulations regarding the use of fireworks vary in individual municipalities within Clark County.  Information about when and where fireworks can be used is available at https://www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks.

To report the illegal use of fireworks (outside the allowable days or the use of illegal fireworks), residents should call 3-1-1.  It is important that 9-1-1 only be used in an actual emergency such as a fire or injury.

For those who prefer to leave fireworks to the professionals, there are free public events:

• Vancouver’s Fireworks Spectacular at Fort Vancouver is on its 56th year.  For more information, visit https://www.thehistorictrust.org/calendar/vancouvers-fireworks-spectacular/.
• New to Clark County this year, and closer to Battle Ground, is the Clark County 4th at the Fairgrounds event.  This inaugural 4th of July community celebration at the Clark County Fairgrounds includes a Kids Fun Zone, a Battle of the Bands, and a professional fireworks display synchronized to music.  Visit https://www.clarkcountyfourth.com/ for more information.

Information provided by city of Battle Ground.