Fire Regulations in Fountain, CO: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Fountain or are thinking about moving there, fire regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Fountain has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fire regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Fireworks

Unlike neighboring Colorado Springs, Fountain ALLOWS permissible/Safe and Sane fireworks (Class C). Legal fireworks include fountains, sparklers, ground spinners, and smoke devices. Aerial or explosive fireworks remain illegal under Colorado state law.

Key details: Permissible Fireworks: ALLOWED — fountains, sparklers, ground spinners. Aerial/Explosive Fireworks: ILLEGAL under C.R.S. §12-28.5-101. Age Requirement: 16+ to purchase/transport Class C fireworks. Sales Location: Licensed El Paso County fireworks booths only. Colorado Springs Comparison: Colorado Springs bans ALL fireworks; Fountain does not.

Illegal (explosive/aerial) fireworks: misdemeanor, fines up to $750 statewide and up to $2,500 local. Use of permissible fireworks during active burn ban: subject to citation.

The rules around fireworks in Fountain lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Fire Pit Rules

Recreational fire pits are allowed in Fountain following standard Colorado fire safety practices: attended fires, clearance from structures, approved fuels. Bonfires and large fires may require coordination with Fountain Fire Department.

Key details: Recommended Max Size: 3 feet diameter (IFC standard). Clearance: 15 feet from combustible structures/fences/vegetation. Allowed Fuels: Clean wood, charcoal, LP gas, natural gas. Burn Ban: Suspends all outdoor fires including fire pits. Fire Dept: Fountain Fire Dept: 719-382-4231.

Burn ban violation: $100 to $600 per CRS §30-15-401. Fire causing damage: criminal charges possible. Unattended fire: citation.

Outdoor Burning

Open burning (waste, debris, yard material) is prohibited in Fountain under state air quality rules and city nuisance ordinances. Recreational fires are allowed with standard safety requirements. Burn bans may be declared based on fire weather conditions.

Key details: Open Waste Burning: Prohibited — state air quality rules. Recreational Fires: Allowed when no burn ban in effect. Attendance Required: Must be attended; extinguishment means required. Fire Dept Contact: Fountain Fire: 719-382-4231. Burn Ban Info: Check El Paso County or DFPC for current status.

Burn ban violation: $100 to $600. Fire causing damage: criminal charges. City fines vary by ordinance.

The Bottom Line

Fountain's fire regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Fountain is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Fountain's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.