Officials threaten to arrest those violating Portland fireworks ban

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Portland Fire & Rescue officials made it clear during a public press conference on June 24 that local fire investigators intend to issue hefty fines and potentially arrest those violating the City of Portland’s firework ban on the Fourth of July.

PF&R Fire Marshall Chief Kari Schimel said Monday that the city’s ban was enacted in 2022 in response to two firework-related disasters that occurred in Multnomah County. A firework was determined to have caused the Eagle Creek Fire, which burned 48,000 acres of land along the Columbia River Gorge in 2017. In July of 2021, three people died after fireworks set a Portland apartment complex on fire.

PF&R Senior Fire Investigator Jason Andersen said Monday that an increased number of fire investigators will be patrolling the city for illegal fireworks on the Fourth of July. Those caught violating the ban could receive $500 to $1,000 tickets.

“Our unit is prepared to take any necessary action when it comes to the enforcement of this ban,” Andersen said. “...In the State of Oregon, just the possession of illegal fireworks is a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable with a $2,500 fine and, or, six months in jail.”

Any fireworks-related fires that damage property or cause injury could also result in first-degree arson charges, which Anderson said could carry a 10-year prison sentence.

“We will make immediate arrests as necessary and forward our firework-related cases to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office for review,” Andersen said.

It's the third consecutive year that personal fireworks are banned within Portland city limits. PF&R spokesperson Rick Graves said that citizens are encouraged to call the Portland Fire & Rescue Arson Information Line to report the use of illegal fireworks in the city: (503) 823-3473.