Fireworks can be legally discharged in the unincorporated areas of Douglas County if the property owner has given permission and provides supervision. Fireworks are allowed at the following times:

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

Fireworks should not be discharged on a public street or roadway.

At Lone Star Lake, fireworks are allowed in the upper parking lot east of the campground during the above allowed times July 1-July 4. Fireworks are allowed on the point of land southwest of the maintenance buildings and also between the maintenance buildings and community building from 6 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. on July 4. Fireworks are permitted only in signed designated areas. Fireworks are not permitted on any other Lone Star Park lands, including the campground and beach areas. Click here for a map of the designated areas.

The Douglas County Zoning & Codes Department regulates the retail sale of fireworks at firework stands and issues permits for them. This year they issued 15 permits, and here's a map of the locations. Use and sale of fireworks is July 1-4.

The community is invited to attend the City of Lawrence’s “Summer Fest,” a free Independence Day event, on Wednesday, July 3, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2120 Harper Street. There will be a crafts festival from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Building 21. Food trucks, children’s activities and live music will begin at 4 p.m., followed by a Drone Show at 9:45 p.m. Viewing will be available from the derby arena. More info: https://lawrenceks.org/summerfest

Douglas County government offices will be closed Thursday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. There will be no County Commission meeting on July 3.

Here’s information about fireworks regulations in Douglas County cities:

• Baldwin City - https://baldwincity.gov/fireworks-regs
• Eudora - https://www.cityofeudoraks.gov/423/Fireworks
• Lawrence - https://lawrenceks.org/fireworks

Douglas County encourages residents to be mindful about the possible dangers associated with fireworks. Here are some tips from the National Safety Council.