GAINESVILLE — The U.S. Forest Service has issued a reminder ahead of the July 4 holiday that all fireworks are prohibited in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests.
Despite recent changes to Georgia's law allowing larger consumer fireworks, the prohibition on national forest lands remains in place. Forest service officials say the possession or discharge of all types of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices is prohibited on all national forest lands year-round, regardless of weather conditions or holidays. 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.
Forest visitors are also reminded 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.
