Posted on FlashAlert: July 1st, 2024 11:45 AM
Fire season has been declared in Lane County by Oregon Department of Forestry, putting a 2021 fireworks ordinance into effect before the Fourth of July.
Lane Code 6.725 prohibits the manufacture, sale or use of fireworks in unincorporated Lane County during fire season as declared by the Oregon State Forester. Violation of Lane Code 6.901 is punishable by up to $1,000 in fines or 30 days in jail, or both. Unincorporated Lane County means areas outside of city limits. Areas within urban growth boundaries but outside city limits are considered unincorporated.
The ordinance was passed in 2021 as part of an effort to reduce the risk of wildfire in rural communities following the devastating 2020 Holiday Farm Fire.
People should not call 9-1-1 to report the use, sale or manufacture of fireworks. 9-1-1 is meant exclusively for reporting immediate threats to life or property. If residents in unincorporated areas wish to make a report, they should call the Lane County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 541-682-4150. Fourth of July weekend is usually very busy for law enforcement agencies. You may experience extended hold times and response from law enforcement may not be available if other life-safety emergencies are occurring elsewhere.
George Custer lives in Oakridge with his wife Sayre. George is a former smokejumper from his hometown of Cave Junction, a former captain in the U.S. Marine Corps. and ran a construction company in Southern California. George assumed the volunteer duties as the Editor of the Highway 58 Herald in 2022. He loves riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, building all things wood, and playing drums on the weekends in his office.
