Fireworks Ordinance

The 4th of July is a time for families to have fun and celebrate our country’s independence. Fireworks, both large commercial displays and those discharged by individuals, families and groups have played a large part in these celebrations. The City of Hobbs previously had a ordinance related to keeping fireworks and those discharging them safe. In February, 2021, a new Fireworks Ordinance was adopted by the City Commission and the same “Safe and Sane” philosophy continues. July 4th, 2021, will be the first time for this new ordinance to be in place during the 4th of July and the days leading up to the 4th of July which typically result in a large amount of fireworks being discharged.

Though most citizens may not be familiar with the new ordinance, the ordinance specifically defines which types of fireworks are legal to discharge within the city limits, and those that are illegal. While safety is a major component of the ordinance, another consideration given to the discharge of fireworks is the current drought status. Lea County and much of New Mexico’s current drought intensity is D4 (Exceptional Drought). This drought status is marked by extreme fire danger (D3), and the possibility of federal lands closing due to fire precautions and increasing burn bans. The authority to ban the sale of fireworks in New Mexico rests with the State Fire Marshal, and the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend the City of Hobbs Fireworks Show on Saturday, July 3!

In Hobbs, only permissible fireworks are allowed within the city limits. Permissible fireworks are sold within fireworks stands and businesses within the city limits.

Non-permissible fireworks, which are sold at fireworks stands located on property belonging to Lea County, include:

Aerial devices:

Aerial shell kit-reloadable tubes

Aerial spinners & helicopters Missile type rockets Multiple tube devices Roman candles

Stick type rockets Ground audible devices:

Chasers

Firecrackers

A provision of the new Fireworks Ordinance allows the City to establish safe zones where illegal fireworks may be used. The safe zones will be established ten (10) days prior to July 4th, with available dates, times and locations to be determined by the City. The new Fireworks Ordinance does contain penalties for possession and use of illegal fireworks.

The City of Hobbs asks everyone to be a good citizen when it comes to discharging fireworks. Use only those fireworks that are permissible in the city limits or attend the City’s fireworks display on Saturday, July 3.

Please be considerate of your neighbors who may have sensitivities related to the noise associated with fireworks. Many of our citizens also have pets that are frightened or stressed by fireworks. Fireworks may also result in fires that damage property, structures or injure our residents and first responders. Finally, it is well documented that discharging fireworks can result in severe injuries. Please keep yourself, your neighbors, fellow Hobbsans, our first responders, and our community safe this year.

For more information on the City’s new Fireworks Ordinance, go to www.HobbsNM.org.