Why it's happening
Utah has hundreds of active and recent wildfires this year. State fire officials say the fire behavior is unlike anything they've dealt with before. Drought conditions and dry vegetation mean small sparks turn into big problems fast.
More than 75% of Utah's wildfires this year started from human activity, not lightning or other natural causes.
What the order does
The executive order lets the state forester ban fireworks statewide for Independence Day. It also gives cities and counties room to designate safe zones for fireworks, as long as local fire officials sign off.
The ban covers June 25 through July 5. Pioneer Day on July 24 isn't included yet. The state will look at conditions closer to that date before deciding.
What Gov. Cox said
"Nothing about this decision was easy," Cox said. In a press release he pointed out he loves fireworks on the Fourth as much as anyone, but called this year "extraordinary."
State forester Jamie Barnes backed that up, saying fires are spreading faster and behaving in ways veteran firefighters haven't seen before.
When the people who’ve dedicated their lives to protecting Utah tell us that this year is different, we need to listen.
— Governor Cox (@GovCox) June 25, 2026
Our firefighters are risking their lives to protect Utah. Right now, they need our help.
Today, I signed an executive order to temporarily restrict fireworks… pic.twitter.com/svrWGGcMZz
What this means for you
Check with your city before lighting anything off this Fourth of July. Some towns may allow designated areas. Others won't allow fireworks at all.
If you spot a fire or suspicious activity, report it right away. And if evacuation orders come through your area, follow them.