Fireworks and Open Burning Illegal in Tulsa City Limits (that’s us)
With large amounts of dry, storm-related greenwaste in Tulsa yards, it’s important for Tulsa residents to remember that fireworks are illegal in Tulsa city limits. You can call the Tulsa Police non-emergency number 918-596-9222 to report someone shooting fireworks. You can tell the responder that you want to remain anonymous and they will send an available officer, who will issue a fine if they catch the person setting off fireworks. You will not have to appear in court or reveal your name. You also have the option of giving your name and appearing in court, which would be useful if the fireworks shooter is not observed directly by the police.
Illegal fireworks include anything that you would typically find at a fireworks stand, including but not limited to sparklers, bottle rockets, pop-its, etc.
Not only can lighting off fireworks lead to citations from the City, but the action could also lead to an increased number of fires due to large amounts of greenwaste sitting in people’s yards and drying up quickly.
Possessing, manufacturing, storing, selling, handling or using any fireworks within Tulsa city limits without having procured an operational permit from the fire code official is illegal and a misdemeanor offense. The Gilcrease Hills HOA is not responsible for enforcing the City of Tulsa codes.
Likewise, open burning is also illegal in Tulsa city limits. Open burning refers to the burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber. Open burning does not include road flares, smudgepots and similar devices associated with safety or occupational uses typically considered open flames, recreational fires or use of portable outdoor fireplaces.
The burning of residential greenwaste is considered open burning and not a recreational fire, even if it’s in an outdoor firepit.
If you see fireworks or open burning in your neighborhood, call the Tulsa Police non-emergency number at (918) 596-9222. If fireworks are resulting in an active fire or are posing an immediate danger to the neighborhood, call 911. ‘
On a related note, the Tulsa City Council passed an ordinance at its March 11, 2023 meeting requiring short-term rental operators to obtain a license from the City of Tulsa.
For more information about fireworks, open burning, and recreational fires, visit, https://www.cityoftulsa.org/government/departments/fire/open-burning/.