Fireworks Sale and Use Banned in El Paso

It wouldn't be fourth of July without fireworks, right?

Every year in El Paso, fourth of July usually ends with fireworks, and usually in some of our favorite parks. However, every year, there's always some type of drama with fireworks on Independence Day.

Although  you cannot buy, possess, or shoot fireworks inside El Paso city limits –I mean, that’s never stopped anyone in my neighborhood, it looks like the county is following suit this year, and for good reason.

This year, the El Paso County Commissioner's Court voted to ban "skyrockets with sticks, or missiles with fins." What does that mean? "Skyrockets with sticks" and "missiles with fins" are terms that typically refer to two different types of fireworks that are considered "aerial fireworks". So, the big ones!

If you still feel like getting sparkly for the holiday, the good news is that the ban does not included "permissible" fireworks, such as firecrackers!

So why the ban? The county's drought conditions are a major factor. We are in the desert and it super hot. One small mistake with a firework and it can do a lot of damage. Not to mention all the trash left behind by some- and all the terrified pets!

With drought conditions worsening, Doña Ana County will also be discussing and voting on a similar ban, and that ban would also include firecrackers.

Fireworks on fourth of July are epic, but is it really worth the risk? If you are caught with fireworks within city limits your fireworks will be confiscated and you will be issued a citation. Fines can go as high as $2,000.00. Maybe it's best to leave this one to the professionals, plus, we always know that the city will have several fireworks displays!