Are fireworks banned in Sarasota County over Fourth of July weekend?

Those in Sarasota County won’t be permitted to set off personal fireworks or sparklers this Fourth of July due to extreme drought conditions. 

Sarasota has been under a burn ban since April 19 because of the dry weather. 

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index, which measures the dryness of soil and duff layers, needs to fall below 500 for seven consecutive days in order for the ban to be lifted. That won’t happen before county residents celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

Along with fireworks and sparklers, all open flames are prohibited under the burn ban, including campfires, bonfires, and the burning of yard or household trash and debris.

Exemptions include fireworks displays conducted by licensed pyrotechnic contractors with appropriate permits, meaning you can still catch public fireworks shows in the area.

Those caught defying the ban can face a maximum civil penalty of $500.