Getting ready for Fourth of July? These fireworks are banned in Las Cruces

Certain fireworks will not be permitted through the July 4 holiday in Las Cruces city limits due to severe drought conditions in the region.

The Las Cruces City Council approved a resolution that declared extreme drought within city limits and which prohibits the sale and use of missile-type rockets, helicopters, aerial spinners, stick-type rockets and ground audible devices such as chasers and firecrackers, beginning June 7, 2024. The ban is in place for 30 days. The proclamation could be modified or rescinded if conditions improve, officials said.

"It would start on June 7 and conclude on July 6," said Las Cruces Fire Department battalion chief and fire marshal Michael Landavazo.

Extreme, severe drought conditions persist in Las Cruces

State laws prevents municipalities from prohibiting all fireworks, but Landavazo said the Las Cruces restrictions are the most restrictive that the state allows under drought conditions.

Citing the most recent weekly U.S. Drought Monitor, Landavazo said most of Do?a Ana County is within extreme to severe drought. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there is no sign of relief anytime soon. The monthly and seasonal outlook for precipitation is below average, Landavazo said.

What fireworks are permissible?

Fireworks not prohibited in the proclamation are ground and hand-held sparkling and smoke devices. Those include cone fountains, crackling devices, cylindrical fountains, flitter sparklers, ground spinners, illuminating torches and wheels.

Permissible fireworks are limited to areas in city limits that are paved, barren or areas that have a readily accessible water source.

Jason Groves can be reached at 575-541-5459 or [email protected]. Follow him on X @jpgroves.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Las Cruces approves ban on certain fireworks ahead of Fourth of July