Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Local Government Committee
HB 1638
Brief Description: Concerning fireworks prohibitions adopted by cities or counties.
Sponsors: Representatives McEntire, Fitzgibbon, Rude, Duerr and Walen.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Allows prohibitions on consumer fireworks adopted by cities or counties to take effect after 90 days rather than one year.
  • Allows counties and cities to immediately prohibit the use of consumer fireworks due to environmental conditions after consultation with a local fire official.
Hearing Date: 1/11/22
Staff: Elizabeth Allison (786-7129).
Background:

Fireworks are legal in the State of Washington.  Cities and counties must comply with statewide minimum standards regarding fireworks but are permitted to adopt ordinances that are more restrictive than minimum standards, including prohibitions on consumer fireworks.  Ordinances that are more restrictive than state law, including prohibitions on consumer fireworks, do not take effect until one year after adoption. 
Summary of Bill:

An ordinance enacting a prohibition on consumer fireworks takes effect within 90 days rather than one year after adoption.  After consultation with a local fire marshal or other fire official, counties and cities may immediately prohibit the use of consumer fireworks when the risk of an uncontrolled fire due to fireworks and environmental conditions is high and other temporary burning prohibitions are in effect.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.