
Use in unincorporated area allowed only on July 4
VANCOUVER – Fireworks go on sale in Clark County beginning Fri., June 28. For the Independence Day holiday, residents can use fireworks in unincorporated Clark County from 9 a.m. to midnight Thu., July 4.
Illegal use of fireworks such as using them after curfew or device type violation is subject to a $500 civil fine for first time offenders.
Fireworks also can be used from 6 pm Dec. 31 to 1 am Jan. 1 in unincorporated areas. To learn more about permitted times for fireworks use and what types are not allowed, go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks.
Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits, and rules vary in other cities in the county. Clark County provides an online chart, indicating when fireworks can be used in different areas of the county. There is also an interactive map that allows the public to quickly determine the rules for fireworks use based on an address anywhere in the county. Additionally, each sales location in the county is required to post signage outlining when fireworks can be used legally.
Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency has established this phone number for reporting nuisance fireworks complaints: (360) 597-7888. The phone line will be in operation during the following times:
- 5 pm to 1 am Wednesday, July 3
- 1 pm to 1 am Thursday, July 4
- 7 pm to midnight Friday, June 5 and Saturday, July 6
Residents are asked not to call 911 or 311 for the purpose of reporting nuisance fireworks. Only call 911 in an emergency when there is a fire, injury, or lives are in danger.
Safety first
Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate the Fourth of July with extra caution because improper use of fireworks can lead to grass or structure fires.
Only purchase fireworks locally from a stand inspected by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office. Fireworks purchased outside the county may not be legal locally.
A few important safety reminders:
- Always have a bucket of water and water hose ready to douse any fire.
- Assign a responsible adult to supervise fireworks use.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and spectators.
- Avoid areas with dry grass or vegetation.
- Never aim fireworks at people or structures. Do not lean over fireworks when lighting them.
- Never attempt to alter fireworks or relight “duds” that fail to ignite.
- Place used fireworks in a bucket of water to soak overnight before disposing of them. These devices can still be smoldering and could start a fire if placed in a trash receptacle.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.
Also read:
- Tesla, Netflix, Philip Morris among those pushing WA governor for tax vetoesGov. Ferguson is facing mounting pressure from business groups to veto several tax bills before Tuesday’s legislative deadline.
- Letter: ‘Anyone from the majority party listening?’In a letter to the editor, area resident Bob Zak argues that HB 1163 is unconstitutional and criticizes the legislative majority for supporting it.
- Our Community Salutes those who have enlisted in the militaryThe Our Community Salutes event at Skyview High School honored more than 60 local enlistees preparing to serve in the U.S. military.
- POLL: Should the I-5 Bridge project be paused over cost and bidding concerns?Clark County Today’s weekly poll asks whether the I-5 Bridge replacement should be paused as questions grow around rising costs and a lack of competitive bids.
- Opinion: TriMet contract: MAX vehicles cost $4.5 millionRep. John Ley examines TriMet’s MAX vehicle purchases, arguing most were replacements and not connected to the bridge project.
- Clark County Sheriff’s Office releases May 7 critical incident videoClark County Sheriff’s Office has released body-worn camera video from a deadly May 7 incident, now under state investigation.
- Journey Theater presents The Adventures of Tom SawyerJourney Theater is bringing Tom Sawyer to life in Battle Ground with performances running May 30 through June 7.