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Fire Ordinances

The Department of Natural Resources – Fire, Forestry, and State Lands has fire restrictions in place.  For more information, visit: www.utahfireinfo.gov

The Tooele City Fire Department greatly appreciates your assistance and cooperation in creating a safe environment this summer and holiday season. Please stay safe during summer and holiday season, and stay away from dangerous and illegal fireworks.  

 

2021 FIREWORKS INFORMATION

DATES OF SALE

Vendors may sell Class C common state approved explosives as follows:

  •   Beginning on June 24th and ending on July 25th;
  •   Beginning on December 29th and ending on December 31st; and
  •   2 days before and on Chinese New Year

LEGAL DISCHARGE

Fireworks may be discharged within the permitted boundaries between the hours of 11am and 11pm, except as noted:

  • July 2 – July 5 (July 4th hours extended to midnight);
  • July 22-25 (July 24th hours extended to midnight);
  • December 31st (11am – 1am January 1, 2022); and
  • Chinese New Year’s Eve, February 11, 2022 (11am -1am the following day)

Residents who reside in the restricted areas may go to the Dow James Park (400 North and 435 West) to discharge their fireworks responsibly.

 

SAFETY TIPS

  • Use extreme caution and be responsible when using fireworks during the season.
  • The use of safety glasses is recommended when lighting fireworks. Light fireworks one at a time. Do not attempt to re-light a “dud.” When a firework fails to ignite, leave it alone for at least 5 minutes, then immerse in water and dispose of it properly.
  • If high winds or other adverse weather conditions prevail, discharge of fireworks should be postponed or discontinued until weather conditions improve.
  • Use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from buildings and vehicles.  Avoid dry grass and brush that could easily ignite. Spectators should remain at least 30 feet away from the shooting area.
  • Make sure that you keep a bucket of water, a garden hose, and/or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency.
  • Do not consume alcoholic beverages while lighting fireworks. Alcohol use increases the possibility of misuse and injury.
  • Be mindful of pets and animals as they may be frightened by the sounds and lights of fireworks.  Keep your pets inside and farm animals moved away during your fireworks show.

Safety Tips for Sparklers

 

  • Children under the age of 12 should not use sparklers without very close adult supervision.
  • Always remain standing while using sparklers.
  • Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
  • Never hold or light more than one sparkler at a time.
  • Sparklers and bare feet can be a painful combination. Always wear closed toe shoes when using sparklers.
  • Sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop the spent sparklers directly in a bucket of water.
  • Never hand a lighted sparkler to another person. Give them the unlit sparkler and then light it.
  • Always stand at least 6 feet from another person while using sparklers.
  • Never throw sparklers.
  • Show children how to hold sparklers away from their body and at arm’s length.
  • Teach children not to wave sparklers, especially wooden stick sparklers, or run while holding sparklers.

If you have any questions about fireworks in your area, please contact the Tooele City Fire Department or call the office of the State Fire Marshal at 801-284-6350.

Recreational Fires

(Backyard Fire Pit) 

Pursuant to Tooele Code 3-1-29, Recreational or cooking fires are allowed by persons on their own property so long as:

  • the recreational or cooking intention for the fire is evident;
  • the fire pile height does not exceed 12 inches above the bottom of the fire ring, fire pit, or other fire containing structure at any time;
  • the fire is contained within a non-combustible fire ring, fire pit, or other fire containing structure no larger than 36 inches in diameter;
  • fire extinguishing items are immediately on-hand (e.g., hose, shovel, water bucket, fire extinguisher); and,
  • the fire does not become a smoke or fume nuisance to neighboring properties.

Any time you’re dealing with an open flame you should always be responsible and take the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents. An open fire is a beautiful, warming accent to any yard or garden setting. It is inviting and invigorating as a central point of congregation and socialization. Make sure it is also safe so that you are free to enjoy it without the worry of an unforeseen accident.

Wood burning fire pits give the most authentic outdoor fire experience, but a wood burning fire requires the most attention. Here’s a couple of quick tips to remember:

  • Be sure to clear away brush and dead or dry vegetation in a 10’-20’ circle around your fire pit;
  • Fire pits should be 25 feet from any structure – Don’t place your fire pit under a covered porch or under any low hanging trees where errant sparks and heat might ignite dry foliage and branches.
  • ALWAYS use a spark screen so that sparks cannot escape the fire (especially with wet or sappy wood).
  • Keep fire extinguishing items immediately on-hand and nearby the fire pit (e.g., water hose, shovel, water bucket, fire extinguisher).
  • Always use personal protective equipment. Use a poker or log grabber to move and arrange logs and never try to move a portable fire pit if it’s hot.
  • Do not use lighter fluids to start your fires. They can be unpredictable and dangerous.  Instead, use kindling and build your fire up slowly so that it is always under control and manageable.

 

Liquid Propane (LP) and natural gas (NG) fire pits require less attention and tending and are more convenient and easy to light, but that doesn’t mean that you should be any less diligent and cautious.

Every time you intend to use your LP or NG fire pit you should:

  • Check all the hoses, valves and attachments to make sure there are no leaks or holes before you introduce any kind of flame or spark for ignition.
  • If your fire pit runs on a pilot-light be sure to check it from time to time to make sure it hasn’t been blown out and that combustible gases aren’t filling your fire area.
  • Always know how and where to shut of your LP or NG supply in case of an emergency.

Backyard fire pits are lovely additions to any outdoor décor.  Protect yourself, your family and your home by using safe fire tending practices and a little common sense.