SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, June 26, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — Gov. Spencer J. Cox issued an executive order Thursday, temporarily restricting fireworks use statewide in the face of “some of the most dangerous fire behavior in state history.”
According to Cox, the executive order will allow the state forester to prohibit fireworks statewide during the upcoming July Fourth holiday while “allowing municipalities, in consultation with their local fire officials, to designate areas where fireworks may still be used safely.”
The order runs through July 5, after which state officials will evaluate wildfire conditions before determining whether any restrictions are necessary for the July 24 Pioneer Day holiday.
“Nothing about this decision was easy,” Cox said. “Utahns love celebrating the Fourth of July with family, friends and fireworks. I do too. But this year is different. We are seeing fire behavior that even our most experienced firefighters say they’ve never witnessed before.
“This is a temporary measure for an extraordinary year. It protects lives and homes while allowing local leaders, working alongside their fire officials, to identify areas where fireworks can be used safely.”
Sandhurst 2 Fire, Salt Lake City, June 10, 2026 Photo: Gephardt Daily/Patrick Benedict
“Our first priority is protecting lives and keeping people safe,” said Beau Mason, commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety. “We are increasing patrols in high-risk areas, supporting local law enforcement, and reminding Utahns that anyone whose illegal actions start a wildfire can face significant criminal and civil consequences.”
“Our officers are working alongside our partners at the Salt Lake City Fire Department and the state to protect lives and property during this extraordinary fire season,” said Brian Redd, chief of the Salt Lake City Police Department. “We ask everyone to celebrate responsibly, respect local restrictions and help prevent the next wildfire before it starts.”
Bonneville Fire, Salt Lake City, June 20, 2026 Photo: Utah Fire Info
Local leaders from across Utah voiced support for the temporary restrictions.
“Communities across southern Utah have lived through devastating wildfire seasons, and we know how quickly conditions can change,” said Mary Pipes, a Manti City Council member. “This temporary approach gives local leaders the flexibility to make responsible decisions while recognizing the extraordinary fire danger we’re facing today.”
“This gives local officials the ability to respond to the conditions we’re seeing on the ground,” said Draper Mayor Troy Walker. “Our fire officials understand the risks in their communities, and this approach allows us to make thoughtful decisions that put public safety first.”
Iron Fire, Eureka, June 23, 2026 Photo: Gephardt Daily/Romy Colvin
“This year’s conditions are unlike anything we’ve planned for before,” said Herriman Mayor Lorin Palmer. “Our residents want to celebrate Independence Day, but they also want to protect their neighbors. This gives us the tools to do both responsibly.”
A digital copy of the executive order can be viewed and downloaded here.
Cottonwood Fire, Beaver County, Utah, June 25, 2026 Photo: Gephardt Daily/Romy Colvin
Cottonwood Fire, Beaver County, Utah, June 25, 2026 Photo: Gephardt Daily/Romy Colvin
