Sam Owen Fire District commissioners ban fireworks within district

By Reader Staff

The Board of Commissioners of the Sam Owen Fire District reminds the public that fireworks of any kind are permanently prohibited in the entire fire district. A state of moderate-severe fire danger continues to exist in the Sam Owen Fire District (located in the Hope area) due to potential uncontrollable forest and wildfire potential. Extended drought and potential high temperatures as reported by National Interagency Fire Center create conditions that constitute a severe fire threat based on the vegetative conditions within the District during the current fire season.

The board unanimously passed a resolution which prohibits the use of fireworks within the Sam Owen Fire District, stating: “It shall be unlawful for any person to use any fireworks … within the Sam Owen Fire District from June 15, 2021 until Nov. 1, 2021.”

This prohibition does not apply to any person or corporation who holds a permit issued by Bonner County for a public fireworks display.

The Board of Commissioners of the Sam Owen Fire District and co-fire chiefs are asking for everyone’s cooperation to ensure a safe and forest fire-free Fourth of July and summer season in 2021.