Fireworks prohibited on state’s public lands

Even though it may be legal to purchase fireworks in some locations, it is illegal to possess or use fireworks and/or pyrotechnics on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and the State of Nevada.

Illegal possession or use of fireworks can result in fines up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail for each offense. If an individual’s pyrotechnic activities cause a fire, property damage or bodily injury, they could also be financially responsible for damage or suppression costs. The laws also provide for seizure and forfeiture of all such materials from individuals by law enforcement.

Fire restrictions went into effect on Monday.

Fire restrictions include the following: Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire (using wood, charcoal or any other material), campfire, or stove fire except a portable stove using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel, outside of a developed fee campground or picnic area (except by permit); smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or at a developed campground or picnic area; operating vehicles or other motorized equipment off of existing paved, gravel or dirt roads; welding, or operating an acetylene torch with open flames, except by permit; using or causing to be used, any explosive, except by permit; possession or use of fireworks (always prohibited), or any other incendiary device; and use of tracer rounds, steel-core ammunition or exploding targets including Binary Explosive Targets while recreational shooting.

Report fires to the Sierra Front Interagency Fire Dispatch Center, 775-883-5995, or dial 911.