CITY OF SAN MARCOS
While Hays County does not currently have a prohibition on New Year’s Eve fireworks, San Marcos continues to ban fireworks within the city limits.
In a statement following the Commissioners Court meeting on Dec. 16, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said that there are currently no restrictions on fireworks at the County level.
“However, we strongly urge residents to use caution and remain mindful of the elevated fire risk,” Becerra said. The Court extended the burn ban for Hays County through Jan. 20.
The San Marcos ordinance banning the sale of fireworks within the city limits is part of the city’s fire safety code, which carries fines for violations of up to $2,000.
It is illegal to sell, possess, store, discharge, or offer fireworks for sale within the city limits of San Marcos or within 5,000 feet of San Marcos city limits, including sparklers and noisemakers. There are no types of fireworks that can legally be used in San Marcos, according to the City of San Marcos website.
The City posted the following fireworks safety tips: - Always follow the instructions listed with the firework and avoid shooting fireworks near dry grass, brush, or other materials that can easily catch fire.
- Keep fireworks out of the hands of children and never aim a firework where they could land on a house or hit a person.
- Have a bucket of water, a garden hose, or another water source accessible in case of an emergency.
- Always pick up and soak firework debris in water prior to disposal.
To report illegal use of fireworks, call the nonemergency line at 512753-2108. Only call 911 if it is a life-threatening emergency so that city dispatchers remain available to respond to other emergency calls.
