Brooke Martin
Fireworks are a common way to celebrate the Fourth of July, but in Colorado, certain types of fireworks are banned statewide. Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are prohibited, and this includes Roman candles. The laws prohibiting their use are intended to prevent large-scale grass or structure fires, with hefty fines and even jail time for violations. While some cities and counties ban all fireworks, others allow smaller fireworks like fountains, ground spinners, and sparklers. However, local regulations vary by location and can change depending on drought conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Roman candles legality in Colorado | Illegal |
| Other illegal fireworks in Colorado | Firecrackers, rockets, cherry bombs, mortars, M-80s, bottle rockets, ladyfingers |
| Legal fireworks in Colorado | Sparklers, cone fountains, base fountains, handheld fountains, snakes, smoke bombs, wheels, ground spinners, trick matches, noisemakers, glow worms |
| Fireworks banned in certain Colorado cities | Denver, Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Woodland Park, Fort Collins, Golden |
| Penalties for illegal fireworks use in Colorado | Fines ranging from $750 to $2,750, jail time up to one year |
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What You'll Learn
Roman candles are illegal in Colorado
Fireworks that leave the ground, explode, or fragment are illegal in Colorado. Roman candles, bottle rockets, mortars, and similar fireworks fall into this category and are therefore prohibited in the state.
The City of Evans, for instance, explicitly lists Roman candles as illegal fireworks. The same applies to the City of Brighton, where any violation of the municipal ordinance is punishable by a fine of up to $2,650 and/or one year in jail.
In Colorado Springs, all fireworks that need to be ignited with a flame are illegal, and Roman candles are included in this ban. The same is true for Manitou Springs, where all types of fireworks are banned within the city limits, except for public and professional displays.
Even in unincorporated areas of the state, where it is generally legal to use permissible fireworks on private property, Roman candles remain prohibited as they are classified as fireworks that leave the ground.
The possession and use of Roman candles and other illegal fireworks can result in fines and even jail time, depending on the jurisdiction in Colorado. The fines can range from $750 to $2,750, while the jail time can vary from 10 days to one year.
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Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are banned
The ban on these types of fireworks is in place to prevent large-scale grass or structure fires, which can cause significant damage, injuries, and even fatalities. Violators of the ban can face hefty fines of up to $2,750 in certain jurisdictions and possible jail time.
While fireworks that explode or leave the ground are prohibited, there are some types of fireworks that are permitted in Colorado. These include sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, and other smaller fireworks, depending on the municipality. However, it is important to note that some cities and counties in Colorado ban all types of fireworks.
Before purchasing, possessing, or using fireworks in Colorado, it is essential to check with local law enforcement or fire agencies to determine what is legal in your specific area. The laws and regulations regarding fireworks can vary from location to location and may change depending on weather conditions and drought situations.
It is also crucial to prioritize safety when using permissible fireworks. This includes storing them properly, keeping them away from flammable substances, and always using them outdoors in a clear, open space away from trees and grass. Additionally, it is advised to have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.
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Fines and jail time are possible consequences
Roman candles are illegal fireworks in Colorado. The use of illegal fireworks can result in fines and jail time. The consequences vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the violation.
In Colorado Springs, for instance, setting off any fireworks that need to be ignited with a flame, including sparklers, is illegal. Violators can face a fine of up to $2,500 or up to 189 days in jail. In the City of Brighton, a violation of the municipal ordinance carries a penalty of up to $2,650 and/or one year in jail. In the City of Golden, fines of up to $2,650 can be imposed for any fireworks that leave the ground.
In the City of Evans, the use of illegal fireworks, including Roman candles, can result in a fine and court costs. The possession of illegal fireworks in Colorado was previously classified as a class 3 misdemeanour, punishable by up to $750 in fines and/or up to six months in jail. Local laws in some cities and counties may impose stricter penalties. For example, in Denver, setting off fireworks of any kind is illegal and can result in up to one year in jail.
It is important to note that the laws and penalties regarding fireworks in Colorado can vary from location to location and may change over time, especially in response to drought conditions. Before purchasing, possessing, or using fireworks in Colorado, individuals should check with local law enforcement or fire agencies to understand the specific regulations and potential consequences in their area.
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Local laws vary, with some cities banning all fireworks
Fireworks that leave the ground, explode, or fragment, such as bottle rockets, mortars, Roman candles, firecrackers, and cherry bombs, are illegal in Colorado. However, local laws vary, with some cities banning all fireworks.
For example, within the Colorado Springs city limits, all fireworks—including sparklers—that need to be ignited with a flame are illegal to purchase and possess. If caught with fireworks, citizens can face a fine of up to $2,500 or up to 189 days in jail. Similarly, in the City of Fort Collins, all fireworks, including sparklers and snakes, are illegal to sell, possess, or use. Violators can be fined up to $1,000.
In the City of Golden, all fireworks are illegal, with fines up to $2,650. Most fireworks are also illegal within the 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.
In Denver, setting off fireworks of any kind is illegal and can result in up to one year in jail. Boulder County varies; some localities follow Colorado state fireworks laws, while other communities ban all fireworks.
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Legal fireworks include sparklers, fountains, and ground spinners
Fireworks that leave the ground or explode are banned in Colorado. This includes firecrackers, rockets, mortars, bottle rockets, Roman candles, cherry bombs, and similar fireworks. These fireworks pose a significant risk of injury, death, and accidental fires. In fact, according to the Colorado Division of Fire Protection and Control, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, causing an average of three deaths and $43 million in direct property damage.
However, some types of fireworks are permitted in Colorado. Legal fireworks include sparklers, fountains, and ground spinners, which produce visual or auditory effects without exploding or leaving the ground. Other permissible fireworks include cone fountains, base fountains, handheld fountains, snakes, smoke bombs, and wheels. These fireworks are small devices that combust without causing an explosion. Each class of permissible fireworks has a limit on the maximum amount of explosive material it can contain, with no firework device permitted to contain more than 50 milligrams of explosive composition.
It is important to note that local laws and regulations regarding fireworks vary across Colorado. While some cities and counties ban all fireworks, others permit specific types of fireworks under certain conditions. For example, in Aurora, fireworks can only be purchased and used from June 15 to July 4, and individuals must be 16 years or older to possess or use them unless supervised by someone 21 or older. In Denver, setting off fireworks of any kind is illegal and can result in penalties of up to one year in jail. Therefore, it is essential to check with local law enforcement or fire agencies before purchasing, possessing, or using fireworks in Colorado.
Additionally, there are safety precautions that should be followed when using legal fireworks. Fireworks should always be used outdoors on a hard and flat surface, away from trees, grass, and other flammable materials. A bucket of water and a hose should be kept nearby in case of accidents. It is also important to wear eye protection and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket, as friction can set them off.
The state of Colorado maintains a list of certified shops selling legal fireworks, and retailers should display a certification badge near the checkout. Buying fireworks from a licensed provider is a smart decision, as it ensures the products you are purchasing are safe and legal. While the enforcement of fireworks rules may be inconsistent, especially during the Fourth of July celebrations, adhering to safety guidelines is crucial to prevent injuries and fires.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, roman candles are illegal in Colorado. Fireworks that leave the ground, explode or fragment are banned statewide.
Other prohibited fireworks include firecrackers, bottle rockets, mortars, cherry bombs, shells, rockets, M-80s, and missiles.
The use of illegal fireworks in Colorado can result in fines and/or jail time. The penalties vary across jurisdictions, with fines ranging from $750 to $2,750 and potential jail sentences of up to one year.
