SANTA FE – Due to critical drought conditions across New Mexico, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed an executive order urging New Mexico cities and counties to consider banning the retail sale of fireworks in the state until drought conditions improve. While state statute does not enable the executive to implement a statewide ban on fireworks, the Governor’s Office encourages and appreciates cities and counties taking action to prevent wildfires. The executive order can be found here.

Nearly 90% of New Mexico is experiencing at least severe drought conditions, with significant portions of the state in extreme or exceptional drought, according to the United States Drought Monitor.

Currently all five National Forests in New Mexico are either in Stage 2 or Stage 1 fire restrictions, in addition to other potential restrictions in place across the state at the local level. All known restrictions are posted on the New Mexico Fire Information website at nmfireinfo.com. The state Forestry Division recommends that New Mexico residents and visitors check with local fire departments, municipalities, or governing agencies to see if there are fire restrictions in place at any time.

Please note that the executive order does not affect municipal and/or county fireworks displays for the Fourth of July.