El Paso fireworks stands can continue selling until Noon Friday, when ban takes effect

EL PASO, Texas -- Firework stands throughout El Paso County can still continue selling fireworks until Friday at noon, according to County Judge Ricardo Samaniego.

Judge Samaniego on Monday evening issued a ban on fireworks this Fourth of July holiday due to the spike in coronavirus cases and the drought index.

That ban goes into effect Friday at noon and will last until midnight Sunday.

"Even if they do have the fireworks at this point in time, they cannot use the fireworks based on the drought conditions and they cannot use it based on people gathering at any place," said Judge Samaniego.

In addition to street closures blocking off areas where people tend to gather for the holiday, he said there will be added enforcement efforts to make sure people aren't lighting fireworks.

If you get caught selling or using fireworks when the ban goes into effect, you could face a misdemeanor charge resulting in a $500 fine