Along with a cup of holiday cheer, many folks will be looking to ring in the new year with fireworks, but residents should remember that fireworks aren’t allowed everywhere in Clark County on New Year’s Eve.
Fireworks are prohibited entirely within the city limits of Vancouver, Ridgefield and La Center.
Amboy, Battle Ground, Camas, Woodland, Yacolt and unincorporated Clark County — including some areas with Vancouver mailing addresses — allow the discharge of legal fireworks from 6 p.m. Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. Jan. 1.
Rules for fireworks by address are available on the county website at clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks.
In Washougal, “safe and sane” fireworks are allowed from 6 p.m. Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. Jan. 1.
Fireworks that fly, explode or travel more than 1 foot into the air or more than 6 feet on the ground are prohibited. Allowed fireworks include fountains, sparklers, smokeballs, snake-type fireworks, ground-spinning fireworks, pinwheels, noisemakers, crackling fireworks and many novelty fireworks.
Using fireworks remains illegal in city, county and Washington state parks and on public property, as well as land managed by the Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service and others.
Setting off fireworks outside the allowed dates and times can result in fines starting at $500 per violation.
Possession of illegal fireworks is a felony and might also violate state and federal explosive statutes. Illegal fireworks include devices guided by a stick (bottle rockets) or fins (missiles), devices with no other function than to explode (firecrackers, M-80s, etc.), homemade devices or modified legal fireworks.
Fire officials advise residents to use all fireworks safely; have a bucket of water or garden hose ready to douse fires; have a responsible adult supervise; use fireworks outdoors and away from buildings and vehicles; and follow all directions.
Soak spent fireworks in water overnight.
To report fireworks violations or noise complaints, call 311 or 360-693-3111. Call 911 to report emergencies, such as fires, injuries or medical calls.
