By Sheriff Josh Brown
The proposed Tillamook County Fireworks Ordinance has generated a great deal of discussion throughout our community. I have received phone calls and emails, the Board of Commissioners has received comments, and there has been considerable conversation on social media. Because of the questions and misconceptions surrounding this proposal, I want to take the opportunity to provide clear and accurate information about what the ordinance does and does not do.
First and foremost, the proposed ordinance is NOT a total ban on fireworks.
The ordinance closely mirrors existing Oregon state law, which has been in place for decades. Under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS), certain fireworks such as mortars, Roman candles, and bottle rockets are already prohibited. Other fireworks, including sparklers, fountains, and similar consumer fireworks, remain legal for use.
Law enforcement has always had the authority to enforce these laws, and this ordinance does not change which fireworks are legal or illegal.
The primary difference is how violations will be handled.
Under current state law, illegal fireworks violations can be charged as misdemeanors. That means they are criminal offenses handled in Circuit Court and may involve arrest. The proposed county ordinance would instead allow these violations to be treated as a Class C Violation. A violation is not a crime, is not arrestable, and would be handled through Justice Court.
So, in summary, the proposed ordinance:
• Is NOT a total fireworks ban
• Mirrors existing and long-standing Oregon state fireworks laws
• Does NOT change which fireworks are legal or illegal
• Maintains the current authority regarding seizure of illegal fireworks
• Does NOT change how law enforcement prioritizes calls for service or handles crime in Tillamook County
Now, for transparency, I want the community to know that I, as Sheriff, drafted and proposed this ordinance. My goal in doing so was to create a more practical, efficient, and fair approach for handling fireworks violations. Reducing these cases from criminal offenses to violations provides deputies with another reasonable enforcement option while still promoting public safety and accountability.
Enforcement of illegal fireworks remains an important responsibility for our office. Over the years, illegal fireworks have contributed to injuries, beach fires, forest fires, and significant debris left behind in our public spaces and natural areas. Protecting the safety of our community, our first responders, and our natural resources is something we take seriously.
I also understand and respect that members of our community may have differing opinions on this issue. Public participation is an important part of the process, and I encourage anyone interested to attend the upcoming public hearings and share their perspective.
The hearings are scheduled for:
• May 13, 2026 at 9:45 a.m.
Tillamook County Commissioner’s Board Room
• May 28, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.
Tillamook County Main Library
Thank you for taking the time to stay informed and engaged in matters affecting Tillamook County.