Fireworks Information

A young child playing with a sparkler being lit by a blow torch with the text, "Sparklers can burMost fireworks are illegal within North Metro Fire Rescue District, which includes the City and County of Broomfield, the City of Northglenn, and unincorporated Adams, Boulder, Jefferson and Weld Counties.

Each year, fireworks injure thousands and start over 19,500 fires (National Fire Protection Association). For everyone’s safety, North Metro Fire recommends that residents leave the fireworks to the professionals and attend one of the free fireworks shows in the area.

Area professional fireworks shows 

Broomfield – The Great American Picnic and Fireworks Show will take place at Broomfield County Commons beginning at 5 p.m.; Fireworks begin at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Northglenn – Northglenn will celebrate Independence Day with their annual July 4th Festival at E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park. Festivities will go from noon to 10 p.m. and include a car show, food vendors, live music, the Duck Derby contest and more. 

Thornton - Hosted at the Carpenter Park Fields, activities begin at 4 p.m. and the "Red, White & BOOM!" Fantabulous Fireworks Show begins at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Westminster - Westminster will host a variety of festivities starting at 4 p.m. at Westminster City Park on July 4 and will cap off the evening with a large fireworks show beginning around 9:15 p.m.

What fireworks are illegal?

Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal everywhere in the fire district. Examples of illegal fireworks include bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, cherry bombs, shells and rockets, M-80s, etc. Those who possess, sell or use illegal fireworks are subject to fines of over $1,000 and possible jail time.

What do I do if I hear or see someone using fireworks illegally?

Depending on where you live, you should call your city or county’s non-emergency line or fireworks hotline to report the illegal use of fireworks. Remember that law enforcement agencies must prioritize emergency calls over fireworks enforcement, so please be patient as they try to respond to your request.

Non-emergency phone numbers:

  • Adams County – 303-288-1535
  • Boulder County – 303-441-4444
  • City and County of Broomfield – 303-438-6400
  • City of Northglenn – 303-288-1535
  • Jefferson County - 303-271-8200
  • Weld County – 970-350-9600

Are any fireworks legal?

While the state has its own list of illegal and permissible fireworks, local municipalities can further restrict the use of fireworks within their jurisdiction. In Northglenn and Broomfield, certain fireworks are permissible. This includes sparklers, trick noisemakers, toy caps and toy smoke devices. However, these types of fireworks can still cause serious injury. For instance, sparklers can burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees - that's as hot as a blow torch used to melt metals. Young children should never handle sparklers or any other type of firework.

To determine what, if any, fireworks are permitted where you live, please check with your city/county for the latest information. Some restrictions may be extended depending on weather and fire danger conditions.

Respect our veterans (and your neighbors)

Using fireworks not only poses safety risks, but it also can cause a great amount of stress to veterans and pets.

Hundreds of thousands of veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, loud blasts and flashing lights can sometimes induce panic attacks. Many veterans plan to enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July and support the patriotic displays their cities provide through an organized fireworks show. However, it’s the unexpected use of fireworks, especially during the middle of the night, that can trigger emotional and traumatic responses for veterans. Please remember: fireworks that produce a visual or auditory sensation by burning or exploding are illegal.

Protect your pets

The Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest times of year for animal shelters because so many pets go missing following fireworks in the area. To keep your pets safe this holiday, follow these tips provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Safety tips for legal fireworks

While we encourage residents to forego using fireworks at home, we want those who choose to use legal fireworks to reduce their risk of injury by following these safety tips:

  • Adults should supervise all fireworks activities, as it is illegal for any person under the age of 16 to possess and discharge fireworks without adult supervision. 
  • Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees (hot enough to melt some metals). Young children should not hold or use these items.
  • Never re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Only use fireworks outside.
  • Keep a bucket of water, fire extinguisher or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishaps.
  • After fireworks fully complete their functioning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding in your trash.

Fun (and safe) alternatives to fireworksthree bottles that glow in the dark in multiple colors

Just because you can't use fireworks doesn't mean you can't have fun with your family on the 4th. Add some color and light to your evening with these fun do-it-yourself activities.