While fireworks are legal in some cities and in the unincorporated part of Clark County, they are completely banned in city limits. (The Columbia files)
Independence Day is here and with it comes family get-togethers, cooking out on the grill and — love them or hate them — fireworks. As you prepare to observe the Fourth of July holiday, remember to abide by the rules and regulations for your jurisdiction.
Although most cities and unincorporated parts of the county allow fireworks from 9 a.m. until midnight today, there is one very large exception: It remains illegal to discharge any fireworks within Vancouver city limits.
Today is also the last day fireworks can be legally discharged, with the exception of Yacolt, which allows fireworks use on July 5. Using fireworks outside of the allowed dates and times can result in civil fines starting at $500 per violation.
To report nuisance fireworks complaints, call the Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency at 360-597-7888. Do not call 911 or 311 to report fireworks complaints.
And remember, Clark County remains under a burn ban that went into effect on Saturday. All burn permits issued prior to the ban have been rescinded but may be reinstated or extended once the ban is lifted.
County burning restrictions do not apply to federally managed lands. Recreational campfires on forest lands are allowed but only in improved fire pits in designated campgrounds, such as commercial campgrounds and local, county and state parks.
Recreational fires are permitted on private lands but must be in a metal, stone or masonry lined fire pit, may not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height, must be at least 25 feet from structures or other combustible materials and have at least 20 feet of clearance from tree limbs, patio covers, carports or other overhead fuels.
All recreational fires must be completely extinguished.
Before you head out to light up the night skies, remember to have a bucket of water and hose on hand to douse any fires. Use fireworks outdoors, away from buildings and cars, and never aim fireworks at people or buildings.
Once the show is over, don’t forget to clean up all used and unused fireworks. Fireworks contain heavy metals and other chemicals that can harm fish and wildlife if allowed to wash into storm drains. Instead, place used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight then place in a garbage bag and into a garbage bin. Never place spent fireworks in recycling containers. Clark County Public Works does not provide additional street sweeping after the Fourth of July.
Unused fireworks can be taken to a designated drop-off site between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Drop off sites are:
Clark County Public Safety Complex at 505 Northwest 179th St. in Ridgefield; call 564-397-2186 for an appointment.
Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal’s Office at 605 Northeast Third Ave. in Camas. Call 360-834-6191 for an appointment.
Vancouver Police Department — East Precinct at 520 Southeast 155th Ave. and West Precinct at 2800 Northeast Stapleton Road. Call 360-487-7500.
