Strict Enforcement of Oregon Fireworks Laws

Due to Extreme Fire Danger, Boardman Police Will Issue Citations for Illegal Aerial Fireworks

Boardman, OR – In response to increasing wildfire risk due to ongoing high temperatures, dry conditions, and forecasted winds, the Boardman Police Department and Boardman Fire Rescue District are warning the public that possession or use of illegal aerial fireworks is prohibited and enforceable by citation.

🔥 Fire Conditions Are Critical

The region is under High Fire Danger, and any ignition source—including fireworks—could rapidly lead to destructive wildfires.

👮‍♂️ Strict Enforcement of Oregon Fireworks Laws

Boardman Police officers and Boardman Rural Fire District personal will be actively patrolling neighborhoods and parks over the holiday weekend and beyond. Individuals found in violation of fireworks laws may be cited or held liable for any resulting fire damage.

Illegal fireworks in Oregon include:

• Mortars and aerial shells
• Roman candles
• Firecrackers
• Sky rockets or missiles

Legal citations may include:

• ORS 480.120 – Prohibits the possession, use, or discharge of fireworks without a permit
• ORS 480.127 – Authorizes law enforcement to seize illegal fireworks
• ORS 480.150 – Allows recovery of fire suppression and property damage costs from responsible parties
• ORS 480.070 – Makes unauthorized sale or distribution of fireworks a misdemeanor offense

Violators may face fines up to $500 per offense, and may be held financially liable for fires resulting from fireworks use.

✅ What Fireworks Are Allowed?

Oregon permits only “consumer safe” fireworks, which:

• Do not fly into the air
• Do not explode
• Include sparklers, smoke balls, ground fountains, and spinning wheels

Even legal fireworks may be restricted under local fire conditions.

📞 Report Illegal Fireworks

To report the use or sale of illegal aerial fireworks:

• Boardman Police Non-Emergency Line: (541) 481-6071
• Emergency or Active Fire: Dial 911
• Provide as much detail as possible: location, time, description of individuals, and type of fireworks

🗣️ Statements from Police and Fire Leadership

Chief Rick Stokoe, Boardman Police Department:

“Given the high fire danger, our officers will enforce Oregon’s fireworks laws to prevent disaster. We’re asking our community to celebrate safely and legally this holiday.”

Chief Mike Hughes, Boardman Fire Rescue District:

“One spark is all it takes. Our crews are ready to respond, but we hope they won’t need to. Please help keep our city and wildlands safe this Fourth of July.”

🔗 Learn More

• Oregon Fire Marshal Fireworks Page: https://www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/sfm/pages/fireworks.aspx
• ORS Chapter 480 – Fireworks Laws: https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors/chapter_480
• Boardman City Website: https://www.cityofboardman.com
• Boardman Rural Fire Rescue District: https://www.boardmanfd.com