LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Public safety remains the City of Las Vegas' highest priority as residents and visitors prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July. With severe drought conditions and an elevated risk of wildfire, the City is taking a firm stance on illegal fireworks. Residents and visitors are expected to comply with all local fireworks laws, and violations will be met with strict enforcement.

According to the NOAA National Integrated Drought Information System, San Miguel County, including the City of Las Vegas, is currently experiencing D2 – Severe Drought conditions. The City of Las Vegas is also under Stage 2 Water Restrictions, requiring increased water conservation due to limited water supplies.

With extremely dry grasses and vegetation throughout the area, a single illegal firework can quickly start a wildfire. These conditions leave no room for complacency. Residents are expected to comply with all City fireworks regulations. Illegal fireworks put lives, property, and first responders at risk and will be enforced accordingly.

The City of Las Vegas Fireworks Ordinance (City Code Chapter 238) is one of the most restrictive in New Mexico (See attached graphic). Pursuant to the New Mexico Fireworks Licensing and Safety Act (NMSA 1978, Sections 60-2C-1 through 60-2C-11), municipalities are authorized under Section 60-2C-7(C) to prohibit aerial fireworks and ground audible devices by local ordinance.

The following fireworks are prohibited within the City of Las Vegas:

• Aerial fireworks, including bottle rockets, Roman candles, missiles, helicopters, reloadable mortars, aerial shells, mines, and any device designed to launch into the air.

• Ground audible devices, including firecrackers, chasers, and any fireworks that produce loud explosive reports.

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The sale of these prohibited fireworks is also illegal within city limits. In addition, open burning is prohibited year-round under City Code Chapter 154 to help reduce the risk of preventable fires.

Residents should be aware that fireworks prohibited within the City of Las Vegas may still be legally sold in the unincorporated areas of San Miguel County and elsewhere in New Mexico where local ordinances permit their sale. However, purchasing these fireworks outside city limits does not make them legal to possess or use within the City of Las Vegas.

The City will maintain zero-tolerance enforcement throughout the Independence Day holiday. The Las Vegas Police Department, Las Vegas Fire Department, and Code Enforcement Division will actively patrol and enforce City Code Chapter 238.

Individuals found using or possessing prohibited fireworks within city limits will be cited, and illegal fireworks will be confiscated. Violators may face fines of up to $500, imprisonment for up to 90 days, or both, as authorized by City Code Chapter 238. Anyone responsible for starting a fire may also be held financially responsible for fire suppression costs, property damage, restitution, and any additional civil or criminal penalties authorized under New Mexico law.

The City needs the public's help in identifying and reporting illegal fireworks. Because fireworks are often discharged in multiple locations across the community, it can be difficult for officers to pinpoint the exact source of the activity. Prompt and accurate reports from residents help law enforcement respond more quickly and effectively. Anyone who witnesses the use of illegal fireworks within the City of Las Vegas is encouraged to contact the Las Vegas Police Department Non-Emergency Dispatch at (505) 425-7504, Option 1. Call 9-1-1 only to report an active fire or another life-threatening emergency.

Rather than risking a citation or causing a wildfire, the City encourages everyone to attend the professional Fourth of July fireworks display on Saturday, July 4, at dusk at the NMHU Golf Course. The show will be conducted by a licensed professional fireworks company in a carefully planned and controlled environment with firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and other public safety personnel on site.

"Our community's safety comes first," said Fire Chief Steven Spann. "There will be no warnings for illegal fireworks this holiday. If you choose to violate the ordinance, you should expect to be cited. We encourage everyone to celebrate safely by attending the City's professional fireworks display and helping us protect our community."

"We all enjoy celebrating the Fourth of July, but no celebration is worth putting lives or homes at risk," said Police Chief Caleb Marquez. "Help us protect our community by following the law, making smart decisions, and leaving the fireworks to the professionals whenever possible."

While the City discourages the use of fireworks due to current drought and fire conditions, residents choosing to use allowable fireworks should do so responsibly. Use fireworks only on a non-combustible surface away from dry grass, brush, vehicles, and structures. Keep a bucket of water nearby and use it wisely, as the City is currently under Stage 2 Water Restrictions. Under the New Mexico Fireworks Licensing and Safety Act (NMSA 1978, Chapter 60, Article 2C), only individuals 16 years of age or older may use fireworks. Never use fireworks while intoxicated, discharge fireworks from or at a motor vehicle, or relight a malfunctioning firework. Completely soak used fireworks in water before disposing of them. If a fire starts, call 911 immediately.

The City of Las Vegas thanks residents and visitors for their cooperation in helping prevent fires and ensuring a safe Independence Day for everyone.