In response to extreme weather conditions, the City of Bend has extended the local state of emergency through August 31. This includes the ban on the use of all fireworks – legal or illegal – within the City of Bend through that date. Under the emergency order, use of any fireworks is a class A civil infraction and carries a penalty of a fine up to $750.

“We appreciate the community’s assistance over the Fourth of July weekend in not using fireworks,” said Assistant City Manager Jon Skidmore. “We had many fewer calls for service with only one citation issued for use of fireworks.” Skidmore also said “It is likely that the City Council will engage in a conversation regarding fireworks regulations starting in August, but through this summer, we are asking community members to refrain from lighting fireworks due to high heat, drought conditions, water curtailment and the extremely dry fuel conditions.”