Ogden City Council approves fire restriction ordinance with staged regulations

During the Ogden City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, a significant discussion centered around proposed changes to the fire restriction ordinance aimed at enhancing public safety while allowing for summer recreational activities. The current ordinance, which restricts open flames during fire restriction stages, has been criticized for being too rigid, effectively banning barbecues and fire pits in certain areas.

The proposed amendments introduce a color-coded system to clarify fire restriction levels for residents. Under this new system, the "green" stage indicates no restrictions, while "yellow" allows for small open flame fire pits and ground-level fireworks, provided safety measures are in place, such as distance from structures and adult supervision. The "orange" stage would prohibit all fireworks but still permit certain types of fire pits, while the "red" stage would impose a complete ban on ignition sources in high-risk areas.

Council members expressed concerns about the implications of House Bill 48, which assesses taxes on homes in wildfire-prone areas but does not address ignition sources like fireworks. This has raised alarms among council members, who highlighted that human-caused wildfires, particularly from fireworks, are a leading cause of fire incidents. They emphasized the need for local lobbying efforts to give municipalities more control over firework regulations, especially in light of recent devastating wildfires in other states.

The council unanimously voted to adopt the ordinance amendment, which aims to balance safety with community enjoyment during the summer months. The new restrictions will be communicated to residents through various channels, including social media and the city’s website, ensuring that the community stays informed about fire conditions and safety measures.

As Ogden City prepares for the summer season, the council's actions reflect a proactive approach to managing fire risks while fostering a safe environment for outdoor activities. The ongoing dialogue about fire safety regulations underscores the importance of community engagement and legislative advocacy in addressing local concerns.