The DeWitt County Commissioners Court issued an emergency order prohibiting the sale and use of certain aerial fireworks in all unincorporated areas of the county, citing extreme drought conditions and heightened fire danger during its Monday, Dec. 8.
The order, designated as Order No. 2025-070, was approved following a determination by the Texas Forest Service that drought conditions exist throughout DeWitt County. According to the Keetch Byram Drought Index, the region’s extremely dry conditions have significantly elevated the normal risk of wildfire.
What’s Banned
Under the new order, residents and visitors are prohibited from selling, detonating, igniting, or using any fireworks classified under federal regulations as “skyrockets with sticks” and “missiles with fins” anywhere within the unincorporated areas of DeWitt County.
These aerial fireworks, which are classified under 49 Code of Federal Regulations § 173.100(r)(2), pose the greatest fire risk due to their trajectory and potential to land in dry vegetation or structures far from their launch point.
What’s Still Allowed The ban is selective and does not apply to all fireworks. The order specifically permits: These exemptions are outlined in the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 2154, which governs fireworks regulations throughout the state.
Penalties for Violations
The Commissioners Court emphasized that violating the order carries serious legal consequences. Anyone who knowingly or intentionally violates the fireworks prohibition will face criminal charges.
An offense under this order is classified as a Class C Misdemeanor, which in Texas can result in a fine of up to $500. Law enforcement officials throughout the county will be monitoring compliance and enforcing the ban.
Drought Conditions Driving the Decision
The decision to implement the ban comes as DeWitt County faces severe drought conditions that have persisted throughout the region. The Keetch Byram Drought Index, a system used to assess fire potential based on soil moisture deficiency, shows critically dry conditions that make the area particularly vulnerable to wildfire ignition and rapid spread.
County officials noted that the extremely dry conditions have “greatly enhanced” the normal danger of fire in unincorporated areas, necessitating immediate action to protect public safety and property.
Geographic Scope The order applies exclusively to unincorporated areas of DeWitt County — regions that fall outside the boundaries of established municipalities. Residents within city limits should consult their local municipal ordinances for applicable fireworks regulations, which may differ from the county order.
Public Safety Message
County officials urge all residents to take the fire danger seriously and to exercise extreme caution with any permitted fireworks. Even small sparks can ignite dry grass and brush in current conditions, potentially leading to rapidly spreading wildfires that threaten homes, livestock, and natural resources.
The ban will remain in effect until drought conditions improve and county officials determine that the elevated fire risk has subsided. Residents are encouraged to monitor local news and the county’s official communications for updates on the order’s status.
For more information about the fireworks ban or to report violations, residents can contact the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office or visit the county’s official website.
