The City of Hood River has declared an emergency ban on the use of personal fireworks effective immediately due to weather conditions which present a real threat of fire.
The community can still celebrate the Fourth of July with the Hood River Fireworks show. As a fireworks display approved by Hood River Fire & EMS and the Oregon State Fire Marshall, the Hood River Fireworks show is exempt from the ban.
High temperatures, dry conditions and natural high winds in the area make this year particularly risky for the public and challenging for emergency responders. The city encourages all individuals and businesses to refrain from any activities that could cause sparks or flame, including improper disposal of cigarette butts, faulty equipment such as lawnmowers, safety tow chains on trailers, and to avoid parking on grassy areas.
Hood River is following several nearby cities, including White Salmon and The Dalles in declaring emergencies and banning personal use of fireworks.
The Local State of Emergency will remain in effect until the July 22, 2024 City Council meeting. City Ordinance 2047 specifically prohibits the discharge of fireworks after July 15th until November 15th. This means personal fireworks use will not be allowed again within the City of Hood River until November 16, 2024. After that time, personal fireworks use will be allowed until July 15, 2025 unless a fire emergency or burn ban is declared by the City of Hood River Fire Chief. City Ordinance 2047 traditionally prohibits the sale and use of fireworks annually from July 8th – November 15th because of increased fire risk during the traditional fire season.
Oregon State Law allows local government to prohibit or exercise limitations on fireworks sales and use.