As Grand Lakes residents prepare for a festive Fourth of July, the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Office is urging the community to celebrate safely, legally, and with consideration for neighbors, pets, and property. While fireworks are part of many families’ holiday traditions, they also pose serious risks if misused or discharged in unauthorized areas.

Know the Rules—And Your Neighborhood

Texas law allows fireworks in unincorporated Fort Bend County, but with clear exceptions. It is illegal to set off fireworks:

• Within 600 feet of churches, hospitals, licensed child care centers, schools, or colleges
• Within 100 feet of where flammable liquids, compressed gases, or fireworks are stored or sold
• Inside any building or from a vehicle

But even if you live in an unincorporated area where fireworks are generally allowed, that doesn’t mean they’re automatically permitted in your neighborhood. Many HOAs strictly prohibit the use of fireworks, especially due to fire hazards and safety concerns.

If you're unsure about fireworks rules in your neighborhood, contact your HOA or community management team. You can find their contact information at My Neighborhood News: Grand Lakes.

When in doubt, the Fire Marshal recommends leaving it to the professionals: public fireworks shows are safer, larger, and less risky for everyone involved. These shows are coordinated by experts and closely monitored for safety, offering a stress-free alternative to backyard fireworks. Check out this comprehensive guide full of fireworks displays in Katy, published by your friends at My Neighborhood News: CLICK HERE 

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The Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Role in Public Safety

The Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Office, established in 1985, serves as the chief fire prevention agency in unincorporated areas of the county. The department’s mission is to preserve life and property through fire safety education, inspections, and investigations. Led by the County Fire Marshal, the office enforces fire codes in both unincorporated communities and select city jurisdictions like Fulshear, Kendleton, and the Village of Pleak.

Their team conducts construction reviews, safety inspections, and maintains county-wide fire records to reduce fire risk and promote a safer environment—especially during high-risk periods like fireworks season.

Fireworks Safety Tips from the Experts

To help you celebrate responsibly, the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Office offers these fireworks safety tips:

• Check your local ordinances and HOA rules
• Only ignite fireworks on a flat, stable surface, far from homes, vehicles, dry leaves, and flammable materials
• Always have a water source nearby—a bucket and a charged hose
• Never relight “dud” fireworks; wait 20 minutes and soak them in water
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can, kept far from your home
• Supervise children at all times—fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults
• Never mix alcohol and fireworks
• Use fireworks outdoors only and never carry them in your pocket or light them in glass or metal containers

Also, even though the area has experienced a healthy amount of rain lately, keep an eye on the weather forecast. Dry conditions and strong winds can increase the risk of fire spreading rapidly.

Protecting Your Pets from Fireworks Anxiety

For pets, fireworks are anything but fun. Loud noises and flashing lights can cause them to panic and flee, even from fenced yards. Fort Bend County Animal Services and the Fire Marshal’s Office recommend the following pet safety tips:

• Keep pets secured indoors during fireworks displays
• Create a safe, comfortable room or crate with their favorite toys
• Use ambient noise like a TV or music to help mask the sound
• Update ID tags and microchips in case they get lost
• Stay home if possible—your presence can provide calming reassurance
• Use distraction tools like treat toys or frozen Kongs to help soothe anxiety

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Not Sure If You’re in an Unincorporated Area?

If you're unsure whether your property falls within unincorporated Fort Bend County, you can check the official map here. Residents in incorporated cities should consult their city officials for specific fireworks restrictions.

This Independence Day, let’s prioritize what matters most—keeping our neighborhoods safe, peaceful, and respectful for all families and pets. Before you celebrate, double-check your neighborhood’s fireworks policy and plan ahead for a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.

For HOA contact info, fireworks guidelines, and community updates, visit your neighborhood page at Grand Lakes.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.