Douglas County, CO Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Legal in CO
- Permissible (non-aerial) fireworks only
- Always illegal
- Aerial + explosive fireworks statewide
- Fire-season status
- All fireworks usually banned
- Max fine
- $1,000 plus $10 surcharge
- Complaint hotline
- 303-814-7118
Summary
Colorado allows only non-aerial, non-explosive "permissible fireworks" (fountains, sparklers, ground spinners). All aerial and audible-explosive fireworks (bottle rockets, firecrackers, mortars, Roman candles) are illegal statewide. Douglas County routinely bans even permissible fireworks during summer fire restrictions.
Use of fireworks – including professional firework displays.
Full Breakdown
Under C.R.S. 12-28-101 only "permissible fireworks" are legal in Colorado; the statute excludes aerial devices and audible ground devices such as firecrackers. C.R.S. 12-28-102 makes it unlawful to use any fireworks other than permissible fireworks anywhere in the state. C.R.S. 12-28-107 lets counties and towns further restrict or ban fireworks. Douglas County almost every summer enacts Stage 1 or Stage 2 fire restrictions (C.R.S. 24-33.5-1426 authority) that prohibit all fireworks, including professional displays. Highlands Ranch and other unincorporated areas fall under the County restriction; Castle Rock, Parker and Lone Tree add their own bans. Report violations to the fireworks hotline 303-814-7118.
Violations & Fines
Violating County fire restrictions is a Class 2 Petty Offense punishable by up to a $1,000 fine plus a $10 surcharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bottle rockets legal in Douglas County?
Can I use sparklers on July 4th?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Douglas County
How Douglas County compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·Compare Douglas County to another location·View the Colorado fire regulations overview
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