Use of Fireworks in Medford

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The City of Medford encourages all residents to exercise caution and take proper safety measures if they choose to use fireworks.  The use of fireworks near dry vegetation could cause a wildfire.  Oregon legal consumer fireworks can only be used in legal areas from July 1 through July 6; the penalty of using illegal fireworks is $2,500. Fireworks Sales are limited to June 23 to July 6 and sales are prohibited in the City limits.

Most of our fires around the Fourth of July Holiday are caused by improper disposal of fireworks, especially in plastic dumpsters and trash cans, or from fireworks getting into dry grass and vegetation. Current conditions make it especially important to follow safety precautions and dispose of fireworks properly.  

As a reminder:

  • Prohibited Areas in Medford: It is illegal within the City limits of Medford to discharge any fireworks in Wildland Hazard Areas (hills east of Foothill Road and North Phoenix Road), the Bear Creek Greenway, any City park, or any public school (Medford Municipal Code - All Types of Fireworks Prohibited).
  • Oregon Illegal Fireworks: Any type of aerial firework is illegal for citizens to discharge in the State of Oregon.  This would include mortars, bottle or sky rockets, and Roman Candles or similar devices that shoot flaming balls.  According to the State statutes, fireworks that fly more than 12 inches in the air or move more than 6 feet along the ground are illegal to use in the State of Oregon.
  • Oregon Illegal Explosives: Explosive devices are illegal to use in the State of Oregon, including firecrackers and M-80s. 
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Fireworks Safety

As you prepare for Fourth of July activities this year, please keep these firework safety tips in mind: 

  • Place fireworks in a container full of water overnight before disposing them.
  • Have a hose or bucket of water available to put a fire out.
  • Do NOT dispose of fireworks in dumpsters (especially plastic ones) or plastic trash cans. 
  • Never hold fireworks in your hands. 
  • Never re-light a dud.  Wait 15 minutes, pick up with a shovel, and soak with water before disposal. 
  • Be safe when lighting fireworks; keep children and pets away from fireworks. 
  • Be aware; use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places. 

Fireworks can be distressing for pets, veterans and others in the community.  Please be respectful of those around you and celebrate responsibly. Thank you for your efforts to keep our neighborhoods, public spaces and first responders safe this Fourth of July.

Firework Permits

A permit is required to sell fireworks or present a fireworks display.  Please call us at (541) 774-2300 for more information.

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