Happy 4th of July - Celebrate Safely in our Mountains

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, but in our beautiful mountain community, it's crucial to remember the serious hazards that fireworks pose, particularly concerning wildfires. Below are some tips on being safe, rules for fireworks in Larimer County and public places where you can celebrate safely.

The Dangers of Fireworks in our Mountain Community

The dry conditions prevalent in mountainous terrain during the summer months create an extreme fire risk. Even seemingly innocuous fireworks, like sparklers, burn at incredibly high temperatures (over 1,000° Fahrenheit) and can easily ignite dry grass, brush, and trees. This can lead to rapidly spreading wildfires that devastate vast areas of land, threaten wildlife, and endanger lives and property.

Many areas, especially on public lands managed by entities like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, have strict prohibitions against fireworks of all kinds. Violating these regulations can result in significant fines and criminal charges, and individuals who start wildfires may be held liable for property damages and firefighting costs.

Beyond fire, fireworks also contribute to:

• Wildlife Trauma: The loud noises and bright flashes can cause severe stress and disorientation to wildlife.

• Personal Injury: Each year, thousands of people, including many children, suffer severe injuries such as burns, eye damage, and hand injuries due from fireworks. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend professional displays.

Fireworks Regulations in Larimer County, Fort Collins, and Loveland

Fireworks laws vary by jurisdiction, and local regulations often supersede state guidelines, especially regarding permissible fireworks.

• State of Colorado Regulations: Generally, any fireworks that explode or leave the ground (such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman Candles, aerials, mortars, and missiles) are illegal for public sale or use across Colorado, except for permitted professional displays. Fireworks that are typically permissible under state law, if allowed by local ordinances and fire restrictions, include items like sparklers, fountains, smoke balls, items with crackle and strobe effects, wheels, spinners, illuminating torches, colored fire, dipped sticks, toy propellant or toy smoke devices, trick noisemakers, and snake or glow worms.

• Fort Collins: All fireworks, including sparklers and snakes, are illegal to possess, sell, or use within Fort Collins city limits. The city has a "no tolerance" policy, and violations can result in a fine of $1,000. Fort Collins Police Services can issue citations to anyone with a "possessory interest" in the property where illegal fireworks are being used (e.g., property owners, tenants, occupants). You can find more information from the City of Fort Collins and Poudre Fire Authority.

• Loveland: In the City of Loveland, fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal for sale or use. However, permissible fireworks (those that don't explode or leave the ground), such as sparklers, fountains, smoke balls, items with crackle/strobe effects, wheels, and spinners, are generally allowed to be sold (with a permit) and used within city limits and unincorporated Larimer County. Children under 16 must have direct adult supervision when using these items. Illegal use can lead to substantial fines and a mandatory court appearance. For details, refer to the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority FAQs and City of Loveland Parks & Recreation News.

• Larimer County (Unincorporated Areas): In unincorporated areas of Larimer County, Colorado-permissible fireworks (those that do not explode or leave the ground) are generally allowed on private property, unless specific fire restrictions or bans are in effect. Fire restrictions are implemented by the Larimer County Commissioners based on fire danger. It is crucial to check for current fire restrictions before using any fireworks. Additionally, fireworks are strictly prohibited on all federal lands, including Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands, National Forest System lands, and within National Park Service sites like Rocky Mountain National Park. You can find more information about Larimer County fire restrictions from Larimer County and 95 Rock.

Local 4th of July Festivities: Celebrate Responsibly!

Instead of personal fireworks, consider attending one of the many professionally organized displays in our communities. These events offer a spectacular show while minimizing risks to our natural environment and personal safety.

Here are some local 4th of July festivities to enjoy:

Fort Collins 4th of July Celebration

The City of Fort Collins is hosting a full day of Independence Day activities on Thursday, July 4, 2025, at City Park.

• Morning Events:

  • 7:30 a.m.: FireKracker 5k and Food Truck Rally

  • 10:00 a.m.: Annual Independence Day Parade (westbound on Mountain Avenue)

• Daytime Activities:

  • Noon - 4:00 p.m.: City Park Pool special hours

  • 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.: Family Fun Zone with games and giveaways

  • Noon - 5:00 p.m.: Free trolley rides

• Evening Entertainment:

  • 4:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.: Live music performances at City Park featuring FoCo Motown Revue, The Patti Fiasco, and Funky Business.

• Fireworks Celebration:

  • 9:35 p.m.: Fireworks over Sheldon Lake at City Park. Free shuttle service available from Transfort.

• More Information: For detailed planning, visit the City of Fort Collins July 4th website.

Timnath 4th of July Celebration

Timnath's 4th of July Celebration will take place on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Timnath Reservoir.

• Event Start:

  • 6:00 p.m.: Festivities begin with live music.

• Activities: Enjoy live entertainment, various family activities, and food from local food trucks. Free activities include a quad bungee trampoline, coconut tree climb, amusement rides, an inflatable obstacle course, hamster balls, a dual-lane slide, bounce houses, a toddler zone, inflatable midway games, and face painting.

• Fireworks Show:

  • 9:30 p.m.: Pyro-musical fireworks show over the reservoir.

• Prohibited Items: Pets and animals, grills, alcohol, personal fireworks, and glass items.

• Reservoir Access: Limited boating and reservoir hours on July 4th. Non-motorized use is open from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and motorized and trailered non-motorized use from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All boats must be off the water by 4:00 p.m. and the boat trailer parking lot closes at 4:00 p.m.

• Parking: Reservoir pass holder parking lot is open from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., after which all vehicles must move to event parking areas. Parking lots for the event open at 5:30 p.m.

• Emergency Notifications: Text "TIMNATHEVENT" to 888-777.

• More Information: Find more details on the Town of Timnath website.

Loveland

The City of Loveland will not be hosting an Independence Day fireworks show in 2025 due to budget constraints. However, there are other daytime activities planned for July 4th, including Winona Pool being open, water play features at Fairgrounds Park, Loveland Sports Park, and Mehaffey Park, and the Buckhorn Northern Railroad miniature train at North Lake Park.

Jamestown

There will be a "Jamestown Fireworks & Concert Independence Day Celebration" on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at East Ferry. Music starts at 7:00 PM and fireworks begin at 9:00 PM.

Berthoud

Berthoud will host its fireworks celebration a night early on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Waggener Farm Park. The event starts at 5:00 PM with a live DJ, followed by live music from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and fireworks at dusk. There will also be food trucks, a beer garden, and yard games.

Have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day!