The use of consumer fireworks for the Fourth of July is regulated across the North Olympic Peninsula.
Port Angeles, Sequim, and Port Townsend all have blanket bans on the sale and use of fireworks within the city limits, while the more rural areas of Clallam and Jefferson counties operate under state law.
RCW 70.77 states the ignition of fireworks is allowable between the following dates and times: June 29 – July 3, 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. and 12 a.m. Monday and 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Tuesday.
Clallam County’s new fireworks ordinance is in effect this year.
East of the Elwha River, consumer fireworks may be used or discharged only between 9 a.m. and midnight on the Fourth of July.
West of the Elwha River, consumer fireworks may be used or discharged at all times allowed pursuant to state law.
National Forest Service and Olympic National Park officials reminded visitors to leave their fireworks at home if they plan to visit the parks.
“All fireworks — sparklers included — are prohibited on all federal public lands, including the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park,” said Penny Wagner, Olympic National Park spokesperson.
Authorities are also cautioning people on where they purchase their consumer fireworks.
There were 538 licenses issued to fireworks retailers.
“Fireworks cannot be legally purchased over the internet and shipped to a private residence or picked up anywhere other than a licensed and permitted fireworks to stand,” said state Fire Marshal Greg Baurso.
