What Scottsdale Residents Need To Know Before Setting Off Fireworks This July 4th

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Before lighting anything this Fourth of July, Scottsdale residents should know where, when and what kind of fireworks are actually legal, and just how easily a legal firework can still start a wildfire.

Consumer fireworks in Scottsdale are governed by both Arizona state law and Scottsdale City Ordinance 4157, and the rules carry real consequences for getting it wrong.

Fireworks are banned at all times on public property, including city buildings, parks, parking lots, schools and streets. They're also prohibited within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Pinnacle Peak Park and on any property within one mile of those areas.

Illegal use near the preserve or Pinnacle Peak Park is a criminal misdemeanor that can lead to arrest, fines, probation or jail time.

Even where fireworks are legal, they remain a serious wildfire risk.

In a previous case, investigators with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management determined that fireworks sparked the 260-acre Stage Fire along Interstate 17 northwest of New River.

This year's dry conditions across the Sonoran Desert mean a single spark into the region's vegetation could ignite a fast-moving wildfire. Stage II fire restrictions and closures remain in place in certain areas around the state due to ongoing drought, fire activity and limited firefighting resources.

Fireworks are never allowed on State Trust Land, regardless of the time of year or current restrictions.

"It's a matter of situational awareness and personal responsibility," DFFM Prevention Officer Aaron Casem said previously. "Fireworks have proven to be an ignition source for fires on our lands and what we are asking is that the public understand the threat, make good choices, and if possible, partake in alternative 4th of July activities."

For this holiday, the legal window to buy and use permissible consumer fireworks in Scottsdale runs June 24 through July 6. Buyers must be at least 18 years old.

Anyone who sets off fireworks can be held financially responsible for any resulting fire damage, property loss or emergency response costs.

Novelty items like smoke balls, poppers and small wire sparklers are exempt from these restrictions and can be sold and used year-round. Professional and commercial displays require a permit through the Scottsdale Fire Prevention Division.

Residents, businesses and vendors with questions can call the Scottsdale Fire Prevention Division at 480-312-1855.