As communities across the Snoqualmie Valley prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the cities of North Bend and Snoqualmie are urging residents to prioritize safety and follow local fireworks laws.
Both cities allow certain types of consumer fireworks during limited hours on July 4 but prohibit aerial devices and discharges in public parks. Officials encourage residents to review the rules carefully and consider enjoying professional displays instead of lighting fireworks at home.
Snoqualmie: Fireworks Patrols and a Public Display
As Independence Day approaches, the City of Snoqualmie is encouraging residents to leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy the city’s annual Red, White & Boom celebration at Snoqualmie Community Park. The free event runs from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on July 4, with a professional fireworks show scheduled to begin around 9:45 p.m.
To prevent injuries, wildfires, and property damage, the Snoqualmie Fire and Police Departments will patrol for ordinance violations. Aerial devices, firecrackers, and explosive devices are illegal within city limits, and fireworks are not allowed in any public park. Only ground fireworks, hand-held sparkling devices, and smoke devices are permitted.
Fireworks may be discharged within Snoqualmie only on July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight. State law requires purchasers to be at least 16 years old. Both fireworks stands in Snoqualmie sell only items legal under city regulations.
Residents who choose to light fireworks at home are advised to take safety precautions, including keeping water and extinguishers nearby, supervising children, and securing pets. More information is available at www.snoqualmiewa.gov. For questions, contact Fire Chief Mike Bailey at mbailey@snoqualmiewa.gov or 425-888-1551.
North Bend: Know the Rules and Celebrate Responsibly
The City of North Bend is also reminding residents to celebrate safely and follow local fireworks regulations. Fireworks may only be discharged on July 4 between 9 a.m. and midnight. Aerial fireworks, including bottle rockets and missiles, are prohibited, as is the use of any fireworks in public parks.
Legal fireworks in North Bend include ground fireworks, smoke devices, and hand-held sparklers. All licensed retail stands within city limits sell only fireworks permitted under local code. For full details, residents are encouraged to review North Bend Municipal Code 8.20.010 at northbendwa.gov.
City officials encourage residents to prepare for fireworks by keeping pets indoors, having water nearby, and ensuring all participants know the address of the celebration site in case of an emergency. Fireworks should be used outdoors on flat, hard surfaces, with only adults handling them. Eye protection is recommended, and spectators should be kept at a safe distance.
After the celebration, residents are asked to clean up all debris and soak used fireworks in a bucket of water for at least 10 minutes before placing them in the trash. Duds, or fireworks that fail to ignite, should be handled with caution—an adult should wait at least 15 minutes before approaching, then carefully submerge them in water. Unused fireworks should be kept dry and out of reach of children and should not be soaked in water.
Celebrate Locally, Celebrate Safely
Whether attending a public display or celebrating at home, residents are urged to prioritize safety this holiday. Both cities provide clear guidance on what is permitted and the necessary steps to take to prevent injuries and fires. Emergency services are available by calling 911 to report illegal activity or request assistance.
[Information provided by the cities of Snoqualmie and North Bend. Featured Photo by nine koepfer on Unsplash]
