Are Fireworks Legal in Colorado?
Colorado takes fireworks seriously as a part of the state’s efforts to prevent destructive grass fires, forest fires, and structure fires. Some Colorado cities have a complete ban on all fireworks for private usage while others allow some types of fireworks as long as they do not explode or launch off the ground. The state permits large public fireworks displays on holidays such as Independence Day and New Year’s Eve with pre-approval. It’s important to know the laws for your area and the state’s penalties for private individuals who violate the ban.
Are All Fireworks Illegal in Colorado?
Colorado is one of only 15 states with a ban on the private use of most fireworks. Only Massachusetts has stricter laws, prohibiting residents from the use of any fireworks outside of pre-approved public displays. Colorado allows the private use of non-explosive fireworks including the following:
- Sparklers
- Fountains, including cone fountains and base fountains
- Snakes and glow worms
- Ground spinners
- Wheels
- Smoke bombs
- Tanks
- Dipped sticks
- Illuminating torches
While the above are legal for private use in most cities and urban areas in Colorado, it’s important to look up local ordinances that may ban all fireworks or have bans in place during times of elevated fire risks. For instance, all fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in Arvada. In Breckenridge, there is a complete ban on all fireworks, including at public events. Even in areas of Colorado where non-explosive fireworks are legal, their use is illegal on city streets, in public parks, in state and federal parks, on golf courses, and in forests. Violating these laws could lead to serious legal consequences, making it wise to consult a criminal defense attorney if you find yourself facing charges.
Local governments in Colorado typically list legal and illegal fireworks for their municipalities online.
What Fireworks are Prohibited In Colorado?
Colorado has an overall ban in place for any explosive fireworks or those that leave the ground. For example, the following fireworks are illegal in Colorado regardless of the county or city, except where public displays are allowed upon pre-approval for holiday events:
- Firecrackers
- Mortars
- Roman candles
- Bottle rockets
- Ladyfingers
- Cherry bombs
- M-80s
Any home fireworks containing more than 50 milligrams of explosives are illegal for private use in Colorado. Those under the age of 16 may not purchase legal fireworks in Colorado but may use them under adult supervision.
How Does Colorado Regulate Firework Use at Public Events?
Colorado allows fireworks for public events within municipalities where they aren’t completely prohibited. Colorado 14-11 states the following:
“Firework professionals can be granted permits by a state or local government for performance displays in accordance with industry standards.”
The Colorado governor may issue executive orders banning all fireworks for public display and private use at any time under conditions of high fire risks.
What are the Penalties for Using Illegal Fireworks in Colorado?
Possession of fireworks in Colorado is typically considered a class 3 misdemeanor crime with fines of up to $750 and six months in jail; however, some municipalities in Colorado impose stricter penalties for fireworks violations. For instance, in Denver and other large Colorado cities, violators face up to $1,000 in fines and one year in jail.
If an individual uses illegal fireworks in Colorado and causes a fire, they may face fines as high as $750,000 or up to 12 years in jail in addition to paying restitution fines to emergency responders to cover their costs. They may also be held liable for property damage and injuries in Colorado’s civil courts.
For those facing severe charges related to illegal fireworks, including potential jail time or high fines, understanding the process of warrants, arraignment, and bail is crucial. You can learn more about these legal procedures from a Colorado Springs Warrants, Arraignment & Bail Attorney.