Light off fireworks at Bingen Point Park

The Port prohibits the use of fireworks anywhere on its properties except on Independence Day between the hours of 8 and 11 p.m., when it allows visitors to use legal fireworks in Sailboard Park.

“The Port is pleased to continue its tradition of providing a place where local residents can celebrate the July 4 holiday without risk of igniting their neighbor’s home,” said Port Executive Director Marc Thornsbury.

In past years, the event has resulted in small fires that were quickly extinguished by on-site firefighters before they could pose any threat to persons or property. Such incidents serve as a reminder of why the Port hosts the event and why fireworks are only permitted in a controlled area and for a limited time.

“Our goal is for everyone to have a good time without injury to themselves or others,” added Josh Mead, the Port’s maintenance supervisor. “That’s why we remind visitors that alcohol, drugs, weapons, pets, and illegal fireworks are prohibited, minors must be accompanied by an adult, and the use of fireworks is strictly limited to the hours of 8 to 11 p.m. on July 4 and only in the designated area. We also ask guests to properly dispose of their spent fireworks in the dumpsters and trash receptacles provided at the event site.”

Launched in 2004, the event has been popular ever since. Though it provides a location and coordinates the volunteers that help support the event, the Port does not put on a traditional fireworks show such as the one in Hood River and it does not control how visitors set off their fireworks.

“It’s a strictly do-it-yourself party,” added Thornsbury. “We expect attendees to use their fireworks safely and responsibly so as not to place others at undue risk.”

Washington law (Chapter 70.77 RCW) controls the use of fireworks and permits many common types including fountains, Roman candles, shells, mortars, and sparklers. However, not all fireworks sold are legal to use.

“Each year a few people purchase bottle rockets, firecrackers, missiles, M-80s, M-100s, or sky rockets mistakenly believing that if they can be purchased, they are legal to use,” explained Thornsbury.

Because federal and tribal laws are not as strict, it is possible to legally purchase fireworks on federal or tribal lands, then drive across an invisible line and suddenly find the same fireworks illegal to possess or use. Many only find out when they arrive at the event and have these items confiscated.

State law makes it “unlawful for any person to discharge or use fireworks in a reckless manner which creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person or damage to the property of another.”

Violations of state statute, county ordinance, or Port regulations can result in citation and/or removal from Port property.