Scofield Town Council adopts temporary ban on aerial fireworks, citing wildfire risk

Scofield Town Council on June 15 adopted Ordinance 6-15-2026, a temporary prohibition on the ignition or use of aerial fireworks and sky lanterns within areas identified by an attached town map, citing a fire-chief declaration that drought, low humidity, elevated temperatures and winds have created hazardous environmental conditions.

The ordinance incorporates a declaration from the town92s fire office saying dry grasses and brush "are readily susceptible to ignition from sparks, embers, or open flame" and that "fires ignited by fireworks have the potential to spread rapidly under existing conditions," language read into the record during the meeting. The ban, the ordinance says, applies to devices designed to leave the ground or otherwise function while airborne; ground-based fireworks, sparklers and novelty devices that remain on the ground are permitted unless state law forbids them.

Section 4 of the adopted ordinance sets the duration: the prohibition remains in effect until April 1, 2027, unless the council modifies, extends or repeals it earlier. Section 5 classifies a violation as a Class B misdemeanor under the Scofield Town Municipal Code. Section 7 makes the ordinance effective immediately upon adoption.

Council members noted the ordinance refers to a map that was not physically on the table; the Chair said the map covers the town, extending up the river toward Elwhitesville District and adjacent areas, and that the town will file the ordinance and map with the county sheriff92s office and county staff for notification. The council discussed signage for the public: members recommended placing informational signs at main entrances and said they could copy state Schedule 1 placards where appropriate.

Council discussion acknowledged a likely broader "Schedule 1" fire ban from higher authorities could make the ordinance redundant, but the Chair said local conditions can differ and the town should retain its own authority "so we can fall back on [it] when we need it." The Chair also reported contacting Matt Montoya, who told him there appears to be "plenty of water in the reservoir" and that "there'll be enough when the time comes," and that Montoya indicated plans to seek a variance so fireworks could be launched for a planned celebration.

When the council moved to adopt the ordinance, the Chair polled members; the recorded responses in the meeting were: Ralph (not present), Kim ("Yeah"/yes), Melissa (yes), Brad (yes) and the Chair (yes). The Chair declared the ordinance adopted.

The council spent the remainder of the meeting on a brief festival turnout update and adjourned at 7:05 p.m. The ordinance directs that the attached map (incorporated by reference) identify the areas subject to the restriction; the physical map was not present at the meeting and will be filed with county offices for public notice.