New Year’s Eve fireworks are banned inside New Braunels city limits, but OK in unincorporated areas of Comal County, even though a burn ban remains in effect.
Fireworks and burn bans are two entirely different things. Cities can make ordinances prohibiting the use and sale of fireworks but counties cannot.
Fireworks are illegal at Canyon Lake boat ramps and all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers properties, JBSA Rec Park at Canyon Lake and Guadalupe River State Park in Spring Branch.
They also are banned within 600 feet of places of worship, licensed childcare centers, and schools. It is illegal to shoot off fireworks from cars or at other vehicles.
Using, selling or possessing fireworks in New Braunfels is illegal.
New Braunfels Fire Marshal’s Office and New Braunfels police will patrol and issue citations to anyone who violates the law.
Fireworks are not permitted inside Bulverde city limits during a burn ban. Penalties of up to $500 apply.
Bexar County commissioners proved an exception to the rule by voting in early December to ban the sale and deployment of skyrockets with sticks and missiles with fins.
“Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office, using data from Texas A&M Forest Service and the National Weather Service, confirmed that extreme drought conditions continue to persist for the county,” officials said in a press release. “Residents are encouraged to attend professional fireworks displays to celebrate New Year’s Eve instead of purchasing fireworks.”
Comal County commissioners did not take any similar action. Under state law, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) must reach 575 by Dec. 15. Today’s KBDI is 642 points, according to WaterDataForTexas.org.
On Dec. 30 2024, Comal County issued these safety tips for fireworks:
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
- Only purchase and set off fireworks labeled for consumer, not professional, use.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in water and throw them away,
- Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
- After fireworks burn out, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose.