Truckee Meadows Fire and Washoe County Sheriff Remind Residents that Fireworks are Illegal in Washoe County

Reno, NV (June 29, 2026) – As we approach the Fourth of July weekend and our nation’s 250th birthday celebration, we know many people will be gathering with family and friends to honor this historic milestone. We ask everyone to celebrate responsibly and leave fireworks to the professionals. Remember that using fireworks in Washoe County is illegal and unsafe.  Check out local professional fireworks shows and other special events.

The penalty for possessing or using fireworks of any kind can be a fine up to $1,000.00 and up to 6 months in jail for each misdemeanor conviction, including parents of juveniles. Additionally, the person(s) can also be held responsible for the cost of suppressing the fire and the cost of disposing of hazardous materials.

“Fireworks are illegal in Washoe County for a reason,” said Fire Chief Richard Edwards. “Our region is experiencing hot, dry conditions, and it only takes a single spark to ignite a fast-moving wildfire that threatens homes, neighborhoods, and lives. Every year, fireworks cause preventable injuries, burns, and fires that place our residents and first responders at risk.”

“With the holiday falling on a weekend, we anticipate more people outdoors and increased fire danger across our community. The safest way to celebrate is to attend a public fireworks show and avoid using, possessing, or discharging illegal fireworks. Together, we can enjoy this special Independence Day while protecting our families, our community, and the beautiful landscapes that make Northern Nevada home,” stated Chief Edwards.

“As we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday this Independence Day, we want everyone to enjoy the holiday safely and responsibly,” said Sheriff Darin Balaam. “Fireworks are illegal in Washoe County, and violations can result in criminal penalties. Choosing to use illegal fireworks puts others at risk and, when they cause injuries, property damage, or fires, diverts essential public safety resources away from our community. Our deputies will be actively patrolling throughout the holiday weekend to help keep our community safe. By making responsible choices and respecting the law, we can all do our part to help ensure a safe holiday across Washoe County.”

Capable of reaching temperatures of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, fireworks are hot enough to cause third-degree burns and severe injury, including potential damage to sight and hearing.  Children are especially vulnerable to the dangers, and the loud noises scare pets. According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2022, U.S hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 10,200 people for fireworks related injuries; more than half of those injuries were to the extremities (29% hands and fingers, 19% legs, 5% arms) and 35% were to the eyes or other parts of the head.

While it may be legal to purchase fireworks in some locations outside of Washoe County and on tribal lands, possessing or using fireworks within Washoe County and the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District is illegal.  Residents can dispose of their fireworks at any local fire station, no questions asked.

###

Contact:

Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue: Adam Mayberry, 775.233.3991

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office: Sergeant Kristin Vietti, 775.484.9821