From safety to celebrations, Douglas County preps for July Fourth festivities

With Independence Day on the horizon, Douglas County is reminding residents of the rules for enjoying fireworks responsibly in unincorporated areas of the county. Fireworks may be legally discharged only on private property with the owner’s permission and supervision. Use on public streets or roadways is strictly prohibited.

Fireworks are permitted during the following times:

• Tuesday, July 1 - 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Wednesday, July 2 - 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Thursday, July 3 - 7 a.m. to midnight
• Friday, July 4 - 7 a.m. to midnight

Lone Star Lake specifics

Fireworks may be used:

• July 1-4 – Upper parking lot east of the campground (during the above times).
• July 4 – 6 p.m.-11:45 p.m.: The point southwest of the maintenance buildings, and the area between the maintenance buildings and community building.

Fireworks are prohibited on other park lands, including campgrounds and beaches. Here's a map of the designated areas.

County oversight and reminders

The Douglas County Zoning & Codes Department regulates firework sales and has issued 13 permits for 2025. Permits cover sales and use from July 1 through July 4. Here's a map of the firework stands with permits. Here's a link to Douglas County Fireworks regulations.

Residents are encouraged to practice fire safety and review tips from the National Safety Council to ensure a fun and safe holiday.

Douglas County government offices and District Court will be closed Friday, July 4, in observance of the holiday.

Community celebrations

Here’s what’s planned in the county:

The City of Lawrence’s “Summer Fest is Thursday, July 3, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2120 Harper Street. Starting at 4 p.m., there will be children’s activities, an artisan fair and live music, followed by food trucks opening at 5 p.m. and a Drone Show at 9:45 p.m. Viewing will be available from the derby arena. More info: https://lawrenceks.org/summerfest

The Baldwin City Recreation Commission’s Independence Day Celebration is from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 5, at the Baldwin City Golf Course, 1102 Main St. The event includes live music and a free Kid’s Zone along with food and drink vendors and a fireworks show at 10 p.m. More info: https://www.baldwincity.gov/events/independence-day-celebration

Eudora Parks and Recreation is hosting the city’s annual fireworks display on July 4 at dusk, or about 9:30 p.m. Parking is available at the Eudora Middle School, 2635 Church St., and Eudora High School, 2203 Church St.

City fireworks regulations

City of Lawrence - lawrenceks.org/fireworks

City of Eudora – cityofeudoraks.gov/423/Fireworks

Baldwin City - baldwincity.gov/news/independence-day-and-fireworks

City of Lecompton - https://www.dgcoks.gov/sites/default/files/2025-06/Lecompton%20fireworks%20regulations.pdf