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UTAH COUNTY -- Misusing fireworks in Utah County could come with a heft fine.
The Utah County commission has clarified a code that says anyone responsible for starting a fire could end up paying the bill to fight that fire and for the damage done.
The Daily Herald reports the clarification isn't much of a change from current code. It came at the request of Dennis Barker, the county fire marshal. He is particularly concerned about "cake" fireworks that are now being sold legally and can be shot off until July 26.
He says fire departments want to be able to recover their costs if people ignore common sense and don't use proper clearance with the fireworks. The fireworks require a 30-foot clear perimeter and should not be used close to homes or trees.
Barker isn't too concerned about this weekend because the grass on foothills is still mostly green. But he is worried about what all the vegetation will look like around the 24th of July, after a month of hot, dry weather.
Commissioner Gary Anderson said people should enjoy the new fireworks, but if they're negligent and start a fire, they will have to pay for it.
