In a press release Monday, the governor’s office announced updated guidance in light of the executive order issued just prior to Independence Day banning the discharge of consumer fireworks statewide.

“The change reflects improved conditions across many parts of Utah following recent storms, while recognizing that significant wildfire risk remains in portions of the state,” the release said. “Under the updated approach, municipalities’ preexisting fireworks maps will govern where fireworks may be used within city limits. Cities that continue to face elevated fire danger may work with the state forester to request additional restrictions beyond their existing authority.

“The governor’s executive order issued last month remains in effect and continues to provide the state forester with authority to respond quickly to changing wildfire conditions.”

Cox said some areas have seen improvement on the ground.

“We were hopeful conditions would improve enough to safely return more decisions to our local communities, and in many parts of Utah, that’s exactly what’s happened,” he said in the release. “Recent storms have brought meaningful relief to many areas of the state. At the same time, other communities remain at serious risk. This approach recognizes that wildfire conditions now vary across Utah while ensuring we still have the tools to protect lives and property where the danger remains highest.”

Municipalities requesting additional restrictions will coordinate directly with the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands. Any approved changes will be communicated by local officials before the Pioneer Day holiday.

In Ogden, city officials didn’t immediately respond to inquiries from the Standard-Examiner about whether the city intends to allow residents to discharge fireworks in areas where they’ve been typically allowed or if they will pursue the full ban that was implemented during Independence Day. As of press time, no guidance had been posted on the Facebook pages of the Ogden City Government, Ogden City Police Department or Ogden City Fire Department.

However, neighboring municipalities did issue guidance.

The North View Fire District announced on its Facebook page that the total ban on fireworks in North Ogden is being rescinded.

“We have just received clarification and guidance from the State Forester’s Office regarding fireworks restrictions for the July 24 holiday period,” the post said. “Due to improved conditions across the state, the temporary total ban on fireworks will no longer be in effect. Our communities will return to the normal fireworks restrictions established earlier this year.”

Cox said that residents should still use their best judgment.

“We are still asking Utahns to use good judgment,” he said in the release. “If you live in an area that remains dry or windy, consider skipping fireworks altogether or attending a community fireworks show instead. Our firefighters have carried an incredible burden this summer, and every preventable fire matters.”

The Pioneer Day fireworks discharge period is July 22-25 from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. with an extension to midnight on July 24.