As Independence Day approaches, area law enforcement and tribal officials are reminding the public about policies related to personal use of fireworks. It’s illegal to possess or use fireworks and pyrotechnics in most of Washoe County. Fines can be up to $1,000 and/or 6 months in jail, along with liability caused by damages that result of one’s use of fireworks.
Although the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe sells fireworks to individuals for personal use, it’s not legal to shoot them outside designated tribal land. When fireworks are purchased from licensed tribal vendors, a written permit will be issued to the purchaser at time of sale.
“Fireworks purchased from the Pyramid Lake Tribal Enterprises may not be discharged outside the exterior boundaries of the Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation,” a statement from the tribe says. “Shooters must be aware of any fires caused by igniting fireworks within the area of their choosing. Any unsafe practices will result in immediate termination of the permit. Fireworks permits are not transferable.”
Designated areas for discharge of fireworks at Pyramid Lake will be between Blockhouse Beach and Indian Head from dusk to midnight, according to the tribe. Fireworks debris must be removed from the site where discharged before leaving an area or the person will be deemed guilty of littering.
The following Reno-area public fireworks displays are scheduled:
- July 3 following the Reno 1968 FC’s 7:15 p.m. game against Rio Grande Valley FC at Greater Nevada Field, 250 Evans Ave.
- July 4 following the 7:30 p.m. Artown performance of the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus at Wingfield Park, 2 S. Arlington Ave.
- July 4 in Sparks’ Victorian Square at 9:30 p.m. Fireworks will be shot off the roof of the Nugget Casino Resort, 1100 Nugget Ave.
- July 4 following the Reno Aces’ 6:35 p.m. game and July 5 following the 7:05 p.m. game at Greater Nevada Field. Both games are against the Sacramento River Cats.
The Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District urges those attending public fireworks displays to leave pets at home. If animals are sensitive to noises, it advises owners to keep them indoors and turn on the TV or radio to help muffle any sounds from outside.
