Fireworks.org – The World’s Fireworks Community › Forums › Rules & Regulations › Are there restrictions on shooting fireworks near national forests or BLM land?
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We’re planning a camping trip up to the Plumas National Forest area over Labor Day weekend and my buddy wants to bring some fireworks. He says it’s fine cuz it’s ‘public land.’ But I’m pretty sure national forests have specific rules about this, especially in late summer when fire danger is high.
We’d only be talking consumer stuff – some fountains, a few cakes, nothing crazy. But I’d rather not get a ticket (or worse, start a wildfire).
Anyone know the actual rules? Is it just outright banned on all federal land or does it vary by forest? I’ve heard some BLM land is more relaxed but I can’t find a straight answer online.
Also – what about dispersed camping vs actual campgrounds? Do the rules change depending on where you set up?
For context, we’ll be in California. I know CA is strict already but federal land might be different.
Steve, I’ve actually dealt with this before. Short answer is – it depends on the specific national forest but generally speaking, fireworks are banned on ALL national forest land in California. USFS has a blanket prohibition under 36 CFR 261.52. Doesn’t matter if it’s dispersed camping or a developed campground.
BLM land is a little different. Some BLM districts allow fireworks in certain areas but you gotta check with the local field office. Even then, with fire danger as high as it is in late summer, most of them issue seasonal bans starting around June.
Honestly man I wouldn’t risk it in Plumas. Rangers are out there and they WILL ticket you. Seen it happen to a group near Shasta a couple years back – fine minimum.
If you really wanna shoot fireworks on a camping trip, look for private land or state-approved sites. National forests are a no-go.
Ron’s right on the money. I’d also add that California in particular has been extra strict since the 2020 wildfires. Even sparklers are considered ‘pyrotechnic devices’ under CA law and are prohibited on federal lands during fire season.
For anyone wanting to dig deeper into the specific regulations, we actually put together a resource in the Fireworks Guide section on site that covers state-by-state rules for federal lands. Worth a read if you’re planning camping trips around shows.
One thing nobody’s mentioned yet – even if you find a spot where it’s technically legal, the fire danger signs at the entrance tell you everything. If it says ‘Extreme’ or ‘Red Flag Warning’ just don’t do it. Not worth burning down thousands of acres for a 5-minute show.
I’ve shot a few shows out in Colorado and can confirm what others are saying. National forests are a hard no especially during summer. But I found that some state-managed recreation areas are more chill — specifically certain OHV areas and designated shooting ranges. Had good luck with a spot near the San Juan National Forest that’s technically private mining claim land but accessible. BLM is hit or miss depending on the local field office. Honestly best bet is just find a friend with a big private lot out in the country.
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