Fireworks: Boulder vs Longmont
How do fireworks rules compare between Boulder, CO and Longmont, CO?
Boulder and Longmont have similar restriction levels.
Boulder, CO
Boulder County
Boulder bans all consumer fireworks within city limits including sparklers. Professional displays only with fire marshal permit. The ban intensified after the 2021 Marshall Fire devastated nearby communities.
View full Boulder rules →Longmont, CO
Boulder County
Longmont follows Colorado state fireworks law (C.R.S. 24-33.5-2001, formerly Article 28 of Title 12). Any firework that leaves the ground or explodes is illegal. Only state-permissible devices (sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, snakes, smoke devices) may be used on private property. Fireworks of any kind are prohibited on Longmont city streets, parks, golf courses, and other public property. Fines run up to $500 and/or 90 days in jail.
View full Longmont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boulder | Longmont |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer | All banned | - |
| Sparklers | Banned | - |
| Professional | Fire marshal permit | - |
| Context | Post-Marshall Fire | - |
| State Statute | - | C.R.S. 24-33.5-2001 et seq. |
| Aerial/Explosive | - | Illegal in Longmont |
| Permissible Devices | - | Sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, snakes |
| Public Property | - | All fireworks banned |
| Max Fine | - | Up to $500 and/or 90 days in jail |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boulder FAQ
Are fireworks legal in Boulder?
Aerial fireworks are illegal statewide. Many Colorado cities ban all consumer fireworks. Check Boulder ordinance.
What about sparklers?
Sparklers are ‘permissible fireworks’ under state law but may still be banned by Boulder.
Longmont FAQ
Are bottle rockets or Roman candles legal in Longmont?
No. Any firework that leaves the ground or explodes is illegal in Longmont. Bottle rockets, mortars, Roman candles, firecrackers, M-80s, and cherry bombs are all banned under Colorado law (C.R.S. 24-33.5-2001) and Longmont's local enforcement.
Can I use sparklers and fountains in my Longmont backyard?
Yes, but only on private property with the owner's permission and only state-permissible devices: sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, snakes, and smoke devices. Fireworks of any kind are not permitted on city streets, parks, golf courses, or other public property.
What is the fine for illegal fireworks in Longmont?
The Longmont Fire Department reports fines for illegal fireworks of up to $500 and/or 90 days in jail. Setting off aerial or explosive fireworks may also be charged as a petty offense under C.R.S. 24-33.5-2010, which adds up to 10 days in jail and/or a $300 state fine.
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