The city’s ban on fireworks includes Class C ‘safe and sane’ fireworks like sparklers, fountains, ground-spinning fireworks and smoke balls
VANCOUVER — With the Fourth of July approaching, Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli and Fire Chief Joe Molina are reminding residents that it is illegal to use, possess or sell fireworks of any kind within the Vancouver city limits.
The city’s ban on fireworks includes Class C “safe and sane” fireworks like sparklers, fountains, ground-spinning fireworks and smoke balls. It is also illegal to buy fireworks elsewhere and then transport them into the city.
The Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office will have extra officers working enforcement on July 4 this year. Violators will be cited, with the minimum fine starting at $500.
“Public safety agencies spend an extraordinary amount of resources responding to fireworks-related incidents, which can have a negative effect on the response time for other life-threatening emergency calls for service,” said Scarpelli.
Residents can report illegal use of fireworks within the city by calling the non-emergency line at 3-1-1 or (360) 693-3111. Not sure if you’re within the Vancouver city limits? Visit www.cityofvancouver.us/citylimitsmaps to find out.
Every year, people are seriously injured, property is damaged, and the risk of fires increases due to the illegal use of fireworks. According to a Consumer Product Safety Commission report, fireworks were involved in an estimated 9,100 injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms in 2018.
Fireworks laws vary throughout Clark County, depending on what city you live in and whether you live north or south of Northeast 219th Street in the unincorporated areas of the county. Please contact the appropriate jurisdiction to learn more about its fireworks laws.
For more information about Vancouver’s fireworks law, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/fireworks.
Information provided by city of Vancouver.
