Editor’s Note: El Paso Matters has partnered with Gigafact to produce “fact briefs” that examine claims about issues shaping our community.
No.
It is illegal to sell, buy or light fireworks within the city limits of El Paso under the city’s municipal code. The El Paso City Council adopted the ordinance banning fireworks in 2021.
Other municipalities within El Paso County also ban fireworks, including San Elizario, Horizon and Socorro, according to their city codes.
Each year, El Paso County commissioners consider whether drought conditions warrant fireworks restrictions. This year, the county did not exceed the drought index threshold, therefore commissioners took no action banning fireworks. As a result, residents in unincorporated areas may purchase and light fireworks, except those prohibited by state law.
State regulations prohibit discharging fireworks within 600 feet of a hospital, licensed child care center or school unless prior authorization is obtained. Veterinary hospitals are exempt. Lighting fireworks within 100 feet of fireworks stands is prohibited.
Texas prohibits bottle rockets and other rocket-type fireworks specified in state regulations.
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
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Brandy Ruiz is an audience engagement reporter at El Paso Matters. She joined the staff in 2021 as a social media intern, completed a summer fellowship at the Texas Tribune and graduated with a degree…
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