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Carrabassett Valley Select Board bans fireworks at Outdoor Center
Summary
The Select Board unanimously approved a ban on fireworks at the Town's Outdoor Center after hearing fire-safety concerns from Fire Chief Sprague Wise and guidance from the State Fire Marshal's Office; sparklers were viewed as low risk.
The Carrabassett Valley Select Board voted unanimously April 27 to prohibit fireworks at the town's Outdoor Center.
Fire Chief Sprague Wise and Town Manager Garrett Corbin presented the issue after a wedding party requested permission for fireworks and sparklers. Wise said the State Fire Marshal's Office would issue permits only at the lowest fire danger classes (1 or 2), that danger levels can change quickly, and that the town forest surrounding the Outdoor Center creates heightened stewardship responsibilities.
The board discussed additional concerns including professional versus over‑water displays (professionals would fire over the stadium, not the pond), excessive cleanup of trash the following day, and the proximity of the requested date to the town's annual bike race.
Annie Tuell moved "not to allow fireworks at the Outdoor Center." The motion passed unanimously.
The board noted that Fire Chief Wise considered sparklers to be very low risk and did not express concern about them; however, the board's formal prohibition applies to fireworks displays. No additional permitting or mitigation measures were adopted at the meeting.
The Select Board did not set any further action at the meeting beyond recording the ban; staff and the fire chief will implement and communicate the policy change.
