In the spring of 2022, the City Council passed a unanimous ban on the use and sale of personal use fireworks within the city limits of Portland. This was on the heels of a fire ending in a triple fatality within the city the previous year and the memory of the Eagle Creek Fire in the gorge still quite fresh that was also started using personal fireworks. PF&R along with all other fire agencies respond to personal tragedy every year because of firework use that can all be avoided.
As things dry out with the summer heat, the vegetation that runs throughout the city becomes drier presenting easily available fuels for a fire to spread. A small spark from a firework can hit dry vegetation and get things started. Add the possibilities of wind, and there could be quite a challenge. PF&R is already responding to many grass, brush, and vegetation fires without the added spark provided by personal fireworks.
Portland Fire & Rescue encouraged all within the city limits to adhere to the ban as each year, PFR responds to many fires and injuries through the fireworks season that starts on June 23-July 6 that can be avoided by adhering to the Fireworks Ban put into place for the safety of our community. We encourage you to connect with your friends and family on July 4, enjoy time together as you celebrate the 248th Independence Day and make plans to attend professional fireworks display in the area.
Here is a list of nearby professional fireworks shows:
Festival Happenings – Waterfront Blues Festival
4th of July Spectacular (oakspark.com)
Fireworks in Lake Oswego | City of Lake Oswego
https://www.fireworksinthedalles.com
https://hoodriverfireworks.com/4th-of-july
4th of July Family Festival | City of Happy Valley (happyvalleyor.gov)
Hillsboro sets July 4 fireworks display | News | hillsborobanner.com
