By order of Sheriff Darren Weekly, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in place for unincorporated areas of Douglas County. Ordinance No. O-012-004 restricts open burning, the use of fireworks, portable fireplaces/fire pits and campfires in the unincorporated areas of Douglas County.
In observation of the Independence Day holiday, all County offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026. Offices will reopen for regular hours on Monday, July 6. Many County services are available 24/7 on our Online Services webpage.
Residents invited to celebrate Independence Day with a community fireworks display at 9 p.m. Saturday, July 4
Posted on June 30, 2026 2026News and Events
A public fireworks display will light up the sky over Highland Heritage Regional Park at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, bringing residents together for an evening of community celebration in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.
The professionally managed display will provide residents with a safe opportunity to enjoy fireworks, helping reduce the risks associated with use of personal fireworks, which is banned under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions currently in place.
Current restrictions allow for professional fireworks. The following safety protocols will be in place:
If conditions make the show unsafe, it will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date. For updates, follow us on social media or sign up for email notifications.
Residents planning to attend are encouraged to arrive early and park only in designated parking areas. Food trucks will be available on-site. Additional viewing and parking opportunities are available near Redstone Elementary School and Highlands Ranch High School.
Attendees are asked not to reserve viewing locations by leaving blankets, tarps or other items unattended at the park prior to the event.
Personal fireworks remain prohibited at Highland Heritage Regional Park.
If you would like to volunteer during the event, register online.
“Independence Day is an opportunity to reflect on the ideals that unite us as Americans and celebrate the community we have built together,” said Commissioner George Teal. “As our nation prepares to mark America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado approaches its 150th anniversary, this year’s celebration is a reminder of our shared history, our enduring spirit and the bright future ahead. As we celebrate our independence, we want to assure our citizens that we have a variety of safety measures in place for this show – and will only proceed if conditions are safe to do so.”
“When the decision was made to cancel, we heard loud and clear from a deeply disappointed public who wanted to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, just like the other DougCo Communities,” said Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle. “By partnering with South Metro Fire and the Sheriff, we found a way to safely greenlight the fireworks at Highland Heritage Regional Park. While our first responders will make the final weather and wind call on the day of the event, we’ve done the hard work to ensure Highlands Ranch has the opportunity to celebrate this historic milestone safely.”
When brought to a vote on June 30, Commissioner Abe Laydon voted against the proposal.
“I wholeheartedly support celebrating both our nation’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary. Those are milestones worthy of celebration. However, given the hot, dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk, I do not believe it is responsible to conduct a traditional fireworks display this year,” said Commissioner Abe Laydon, who chairs the Wildfire Action Collaborative. “I have consistently encouraged the adoption of drone shows because they can be every bit as dynamic and memorable while significantly reducing wildfire risk. They also offer additional benefits for veterans living with PTSD, animals that are sensitive to loud explosions, and families who prefer a quieter celebration. My position is not about celebrating less – it’s about celebrating responsibly while protecting our community.”
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