Title
Incorporated County of Los Alamos Resolution No. 26-11, Proclamation Imposing Restrictions and Limiting the Use of Fireworks During Severe Drought Conditions
Recommended Action
I move that Council adopt Incorporated County of Los Alamos Resolution No. 26-11, a Proclamation Imposing Restrictions and Limiting the Use of Fireworks During Severe Drought Conditions.
County Manager's Recommendation
The County Manager recommends that Council adopt Incorporated County of Los Alamos Resolution No. 26-11.
Body
The National Weather Service (NWS) drought monitoring data indicates that 100% of Los Alamos County is experiencing extreme drought conditions, with forecasts showing continued drought through the summer and significant wildfire potential for June 2026. In response to these conditions, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued Executive Order 2026-026 encouraging local governments to implement fireworks restrictions, and the Los Alamos Fire Marshal enacted Stage 2 Fire Restrictions effective May 28, 2026.
The proposed proclamation would prohibit the sale and use of aerial fireworks, ground audible devices, and display fireworks countywide for a period of thirty (30) days. Limited use of certain ground and hand-held sparkling devices would be allowed only in paved or barren areas meeting specific safety requirements, including the availability of an operable water source. Fireworks of any kind would also be prohibited within County-owned open spaces, parks, campsites, and recreational areas.
These restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect public health, safety, property, natural resources, and recreational lands during the current period of extreme fire danger.
Alternatives
If the proclamation is not adopted, fireworks sales and use within Los Alamos County will remain subject to existing state laws and local regulations. The County would continue to rely on public education, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, and enforcement of existing fire prevention measures to mitigate wildfire risk during current drought conditions.
Attachments
A - Resolution No. 26-11
B - Publication Notice