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Las Cruces declares extreme drought, restricts fireworks for 30 days
Summary
Facing severe drought conditions, the council adopted a 30-day proclamation restricting permissible fireworks to paved/barren areas or sites with readily available water, effective Dec. 7; staff said the restrictions are the most the city may lawfully impose under state statute.
The Las Cruces City Council on Dec. 1 declared extreme drought conditions within city limits and adopted a 30-day restriction on permissible fireworks, limiting use to paved or barren areas or locations with a readily accessible water source.
Division Chief Michael (Fire Marshal) told council the U.S. Drought Monitor classifies the city and most of Doña Ana County as in severe drought and that state law prevents municipalities from banning fireworks entirely. He said the proposed proclamation, effective Dec. 7 for 30 days, would be the most restrictive action allowed under current conditions and that the city ordinance—s allowable list of consumer fireworks would not expand.
Council members supported the proclamation and urged additional public education and vendor outreach. Councilor Caron noted the animal shelter sees increased intake around holiday fireworks and urged caution; the mayor and other councilors asked staff to include messaging in utility bills, billboards and social media. The fire marshal said the city currently expects only one vendor request for fireworks sales and plans vendor inspections to ensure compliance.
On roll call the council approved the drought proclamation unanimously. The fire marshal said the proclamation may be modified or rescinded if conditions improve.
The action is intended to reduce wildfire risk and protect public safety and first responders during the holiday period; staff will coordinate outreach and consider whether adjacent jurisdictions are taking complementary steps.
