Fireworks Safety & Regulations

A handful of lite sparklers

The following regulations apply only when a fire ban is NOT in effect:

  • Centennial residents may use and possess only certain permissible fireworks—those that do not explode, leave the ground or fly through the air.
  • Examples of allowed fireworks include sparklers, cones, snakes and fountains.
  • This policy aligns with regulations set by the State of Colorado and Arapahoe County.
  • The sale of all types of fireworks remains prohibited within the City of Centennial.
  • The use and possession of any fireworks is strictly prohibited in City parks and open spaces.

In the event of a fire ban, the use of fireworks is prohibited and enforced by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, along with local fire and code enforcement officials. Be sure to check the Arapahoe County Burn Ban webpage for the most up-to-date status.

Fireworks can be dangerous—please be safe and act responsibly.

Safety tips to keep in mind when using fireworks

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
  • Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
  • Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
  • Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
  • Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
  • Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
  • After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
  • Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

When to call 911

Do call 911 if:

  • Someone is injured by fireworks.
  • You see an active fire sparked by fireworks.
  • You see children misusing fireworks or with no parental supervision.
  • Someone is in a crisis situation and needs help.

Don’t call 911 if:

  • You have questions about what is or isn’t legal.
  • You have or don’t have the exact address of someone using illegal fireworks.
  • You want to know where to dispose of fireworks.
  • You want to know what time of day you can use fireworks.

If you’re not sure when to call, you can always call our non-emergency number at 303-795-4711.

The Sheriff’s Office has deputies patrolling residential neighborhoods to make sure everyone is safe.

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