USFS: No Fireworks On Forest Service Land

While Georgia is legalizing the sale of consumer fireworks starting in just a few days, the U.S. Forest Service says the law does not change on federal land.

The Forest Service said that with the Fourth of July holiday approaching, it is reminding residents, visitors, and campers that all types of fireworks are prohibited in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and all National Forest System lands.

This year, Georgia passed House Bill 110 and Governor Nathan Deal signed it into law.

House Bill 110 allows for the sale of consumer fireworks in Georgia.

It takes effect starting on July 1, right before the Fourth of July holiday.

According to the Forest Service, fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited on national forest lands year-round, regardless of weather conditions or holidays.

Forest Service officials said those regulations are enforced and violation is punishable as a misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment of not more than six months, or both.

The Forest Service said it also wants to remind forest visitors this summer to ensure that all fires are extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving them and to check local weather forecasts and the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests website for safety alerts.