Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are now in effect: across unincorporated Douglas County, prohibiting all open burning, fireworks (including professional displays), campfires, and portable fire pits.
Multiple July 4 fireworks shows cancelled: The Highlands Ranch HOA show at Highland Heritage Regional Park, along with displays in Castle Rock, Lone Tree, and Parker, are all called off.
Why this matters: Colorado's dry summer conditions create extreme wildfire risk. Even professional fireworks can spark devastating fires, and firefighting resources are stretched statewide. This cancellation follows a pattern seen in previous years when weather and fire conditions forced last-minute changes to Independence Day celebrations.
Commissioners split on decision: Commissioners George Teal and Kevin Van Winkle voted to reinstate the show (which had been cancelled in May), while Commissioner Abe Laydon voted against it, citing the need to celebrate responsibly.
No financial loss to the county: The contract with the fireworks vendor was still being finalized when the cancellation occurred, so the county incurred no costs.
The Stage 2 Fire Restrictions came after continued dry conditions, elevated wildfire danger, and increased risk of human-caused fires. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office, in coordination with all fire jurisdictions in the county, implemented the heightened restrictions based on available firefighting resources statewide.
Under these restrictions, the following activities are not allowed:
Open burning of any kind
Use of fireworks, including professional fireworks displays
Use of chimineas, portable fireplaces, and patio fire pits
Campfires at developed campgrounds or picnic areas
Use of model rockets
Residents can still:
Use gas- or liquid-fueled grills, stoves, fire pits, and similar appliances
Use residential charcoal grills when supervised by a responsible adult
Use indoor fireplaces and wood-burning stoves
Participate in fire suppression and fire department training fires
Commissioners Teal and Van Winkle voted in favor of reinstating the fireworks show during a public work session on Tuesday, after the original May cancellation by the Highlands Ranch HOA disappointed residents. Commissioner Laydon voted no, stating: *"My position is not about celebrating less – it's about celebrating responsibly while protecting our community."*
Van Winkle emphasized that safety was always the priority: *"After hearing from many citizens, we explored every avenue to bring the show back. However, Stage 2 fire restrictions mean conditions are now too dangerous."*
Colorado consistently faces elevated wildfire risk during the summer months, particularly around the July 4 holiday when fireworks-related incidents historically spike. This trend peaks during drought years, and the cancellation of fireworks shows is a recurring safety measure across the Western United States during dry seasons.
Why were the fireworks shows cancelled?
Douglas County entered Stage 2 Fire Restrictions due to dry conditions, elevated wildfire danger, and limited firefighting resources statewide. Under Stage 2, all fireworks — including professional displays — are prohibited.
Which towns are affected by the cancellations?
The fireworks shows in Highlands Ranch (Highland Heritage Regional Park), Castle Rock, Lone Tree, and Parker are all cancelled.
Will the county lose money from the cancelled show?
No. The county was still finalizing its contract with the fireworks vendor when the cancellation occurred and will not incur any costs related to the planned show or its cancellation.
What activities are still allowed under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions?
Gas grills, liquid-fueled stoves, supervised residential charcoal grills, indoor fireplaces, and fire department training fires remain permitted.
Where can I find updated information on fire restrictions?
Visit the Douglas County Sheriff's Office website for the latest information.
If you live in Douglas County: , your Fourth of July fireworks plans are cancelled. Consider attending alternative celebrations that don't involve open flames.
Property owners: should remain vigilant about fire safety — avoid any outdoor burning and report smoke or fire immediately to local authorities.
Who this affects most: Residents of Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, Lone Tree, and Parker who planned community celebrations, as well as homeowners in wildfire-prone areas who face elevated risk.
Celebrate responsibly — opt for glow sticks, laser lights, or digital fireworks displays instead of traditional pyrotechnics.
Stay informed — monitor fire restrictions through the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.
Prepare your property — clear dry brush and maintain defensible space around your home.
Support local firefighters — follow South Metro Fire Rescue and local fire districts for updates on fire conditions.
Do you think the cancellation of fireworks shows is the right call given the current fire conditions in Colorado? Should communities invest in alternative, fire-safe celebrations like drone light shows instead? Let us know in the comments below!
Share this with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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