Fireworks
Please Respect Vets, Pets & Neighbors.
In Steamboat Springs, only certain types of fireworks are legal. Permissible fireworks include non-explosive, ground-based items such as fountains, ground spinners, illuminating torches, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellants, and trick noise makers that crackle or whistle (but do not explode). These can be used by individuals aged 16 and older.
Fireworks that launch into the air or explode, such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, cherry bombs, mortars, and M-80s, are illegal in Colorado, including Steamboat Springs. Possessing or using illegal fireworks in Steamboat Springs is a petty offense, punishable by fines of up to $300 and/or up to 10 days in jail.
The city asks individuals to refrain from setting off personal fireworks. Let’s protect our community and celebrate responsibly without fireworks. Thank you for doing your part!
| Event | Location | Date | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| MusicFest | SSRC Voodoo | Friday, January 9, 2026 | 5:10pm |
| Winter Carnival | Howelsen Hill | Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 7pm |
| Light Up The Night | SSRC Voodoo | Saturday, February 14, 2026 | 5:30pm |
Illegal Fireworks
Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal in Colorado, including Steamboat Springs. Illegal fireworks include (but are not limited to):
- firecrackers
- rockets (including bottle rockets)
- roman candles
- cherry bombs
- mortars & similar items, such as M-80s
Permissible Fireworks
Permissible fireworks in Steamboat Springs are non-explosive and are not intended to leave the ground. Specifically, these are small firework devices that produce audible or visual effects through combustion, such as:
- fountains
- ground spinners
- illuminating torches
- dipped sticks and sparklers
- toy propellants
- trick noise makers that crackle or whistle (but don't explode)
- tube devices
Fireworks Sensitivity
Some individuals have sensitivity to fireworks, especially the loud noises that accompany them. The following provides links to information to help people cope with fireworks, such as veterans with PTSD, individuals with Autism or anxiety around fireworks in general.
Pets
With loud noises, like fireworks, the shelter receives several stray animals. To help your pet get through these events or to quickly be reunited, the Routt County Humane Society suggests the following:
- Take your pet for long walk during the morning/early afternoon. It helps them get exercise, tires them out and they take care of business. That evening, they can remain indoors where it’s calm and quite.
- It’s best to leave you pet at home, especially during loud, crowded events like the parades or fireworks.
- DO NOT leave pets in vehicles or unattended in town.
- Never use fireworks around your pets
- Ensure your pet is wearing an identification collar with current contact details. Many pets also get a microchip as an added step.
- Report Animal Issues
- An animal complaint or animal emergency, contact Steamboat Springs Animal Control at 970.879.1144.
- For a lost or missing animal, call the Routt County Humane Society Animal Shelter at 970.879.7247 with a description of your pet, their name and your contact information.
The Boom Behind Steamboat's Fireworks
For years, Steamboat Springs fireworks enthusiast Tim Borden and Yampa Valley Bank have been donating the fireworks for the town’s Winter Carnival held every year during the second weekend of February.
Tim has been chasing the record for the largest shell ever launched in the world. The successful launch of a 48-inch shell on Feb. 11, 2017, was recognized as the largest shell ever launched in the Western Hemisphere.
On a snowy night during the 107th Winter Carnival, the team set a new world-record when a 62-inch shell was launched into the night sky on February 8, 2020!