The region is experiencing severe drought, it’s fire season, and the Fourth of July is right around the corner. You don’t have to be Smokey Bear to know that these are extremely dangerous conditions that demand cooperation by all residents of Santa Fe.

To help keep Santa Fe safe this summer, the Governing Body passed a Resolution banning the sale or use of fireworks within City limits.

Please do not purchase or set off fireworks – and encourage others not to do so, either.

This is not just out of concern for fire safety, but out of consideration for our neighbors’ sense of safety, their right to peace and quiet, and the traumatic effects of explosive noises on pets.

To report violations, call the Regional Emergency Communication Center (RECC) non-emergency number — (505) 428-3710 — and be prepared to provide the exact address where the violations are taking place. Persons making a complaint may do so anonymously.

The Resolution also restricts many other commonplace burnings, which may also be reported:

• Open burning, including campfires, bonfires or pit barbecues
• Burning of weeds, trash or other vegetation
• Using charcoal barbecue grills in public parks or recreation areas
• Smoking in public parks, recreation areas or on public trails

For the Fourth of July the Fire Department will take the following precautions:

• 24 additional personnel on duty for the Fourth of July
• Neighborhood patrols
• Working closely with Police Department on situations of non-compliance with the current burn restrictions.

If you have questions regarding fire safety or allowable fireworks, contact the Santa Fe Fire Department Fire Prevention Division at (505) 955-3310.

We still get to celebrate the Fourth of July!

• The City's fireworks display will go on as planned near Santa Fe Place Mall. It’s far safer to have a single, site-specific fireworks display under the control of experts than to have members of the public endangering the community with private displays.
• The City will host a show by the Santa Fe Vintage Car Club on the Plaza from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 4.

During the pandemic, Santa Feans have proven that we can keep each other safe. Now let’s bring the same community spirit and resolve to fire safety.

To further protect your home, family, and community, follow the preparedness tips recommended by the Fire Department, which are explained in this video and this webpage. You can even schedule a home safety assessment by calling the Wildland Urban Interface team at (505) 955-3901. For further information, please contact the Santa Fe Fire Department Fire Prevention Division at (505) 955-3310