While the sale of fireworks in Montezuma County remains legal, lighting the fuse on a cracker, smoker or sparkler could draw some heat from law enforcement officers.

The arrival of several fireworks vending stands around Montezuma County has local residents and officials asking what exactly is prohibited by the county-wide fire/fireworks ban.

Cortez Fire Marshal Frank Cavaliere said, "It is not illegal to purchase (fireworks) — the fireworks stands will still be open and those retailers can still sell them — but you are not allowed to use them."

Up until Monday, it had been legal to use sparklers, smoke devices and bang snaps within the city limits. Following a decision by the county commissioners Monday morning, however, the use of all forms of fireworks has been banned throughout the city and county, Cavaliere said.

Montezuma County Sheriff’s Lt. Kalvin Boggs said Monday that anyone caught activating fireworks within Montezuma County will be charged with a misdemeanor and will face a fine.