Fireworks?
July 4th is fast approaching, and it’s a busy time for short term rental owners. As a result, with many travelers getting ready to hit the road for the upcoming holiday, the topic of fireworks is a hot-button issue.
Many states, including Arizona, begin selling fireworks at the beginning of June. From roadside stands to grocery stores to even Target, these displays are front and center, encouraging Americans to stock up for the big day.
But should you allow fireworks at your short-term rental?
Short Term Rental Manager does not permit the use of fireworks or firecrackers, as well as other incendiary devices or explosives in or on our properties. This is due to risk of fire, personal injury, and manager and client liability, as well as consideration of neighboring residents and their pets. In other words, we do not recommend permitting said devices in short term rental properties for a multitude of reasons that will be discussed in today’s post.
State and local laws and ordinances.
If your area does not allow fireworks, do not permit them on your property. This isn’t just limited to state and local regulations, but HOA ordinances as well. Contact your HOA if you have one, or consult your CC&R and ask for clarification if there’s no concrete rule regarding fireworks. Be sure to get confirmation in writing so you have a reference.
If your property is in a rural area you run a lower risk of disturbing your neighbors with the noise fireworks create, but if you’re in a city suburb you’ll be subject to local noise ordinances.
Many areas, especially in rural places, use the National Fire Danger Rating System to assess fire risk. If your area falls under this jurisdiction you’ll need to comply with any local restrictions, including no-burn days, when the rating is high.
Is your property fire-safe?
Is your backyard full of dry, easily-ignitable vegetation? If so, allowing fireworks is a bad idea. One spark is all it takes for your entire property to go up in flames, destroying your investment and putting your neighbors at risk. While properties with rock landscaping, pools and hoses are safer areas for guests to light fireworks, it still does not completely eliminate the risk.
Be a considerate neighbor.
Fire frighten pets and small children because of their noise, and can trigger those who suffer from PTSD. They’re also a general nuisance to neighbors and nearby residents, especially when set off late at night when they’re trying to sleep.
Liability.
As the property owner, you are responsible for any ramifications that result from allowing guest use of fireworks. This may include but is not limited to: fines and legal consequences, HOA violations, and damage to nearby properties if the unthinkable happens. You can’t control the behavior of your guests, therefore you can’t be completely certain they’ll use fireworks in a safe and respectful manner. If you throw alcohol into the mix, then you have an even more dangerous situation.
Make sure your policies are clearly posted and disclosed to guests.
Whether or not you allow fireworks on your property, be sure your policies are clearly stated in your listings, guest binder, posted in the home where guests can easily see it, and disclosed to guests upon booking. Include any fines or consequences that will result if a violation occurs, and be sure you or your cleaning company takes clear, detailed photos of any evidence if guests choose to act irresponsibly.
Offer alternatives for guests.
Does your property offer beautiful views of local fireworks? If so, advertise it in your rental! Don’t forget to include photos from past holidays if you have them. This is a huge, often-overlooked marketing point for rental properties in the summer, especially in Arizona where summer is our off-season and bookings are down. Provide guests with a list of locations that hold fireworks and celebrations, and post signage in your home of where the best backyard views are. Many of these celebrations are family and kid-friendly and provide something for everyone to have a good time! Because of the large LDS population in our area, many of these celebrations are alcohol-free.
If you’re a short term rental owner in the Phoenix Metro area and are in need of event suggestions for guests, we’ve compiled a list! Independence Day falls on a Monday this year, and many of these events are taking place on Saturday and Sunday. If your guests are up for it, they can celebrate all weekend!
PHOENIX
The City of Phoenix has canceled several Independence Day celebrations this year, citing supply chain shortages which resulted in an inability to obtain fireworks. Guests may need to travel to other cities in the Phoenix Metro Area this year to view fireworks.
Royal Palm annual 4th of July Celebration
Royal Palm Park, 7-9AM
TEMPE
July 3, 2022
6PM to 10PM
Tempe Beach Park
Tempe, AZ
One of the most popular July 4th celebrations in the valley! Featuring free, family-friendly fun that includes live music, food, children’s activities, and an amazing fire show choreographed to music on Tempe Town Lake.
SCOTTSDALE/CAVE CREEK/ANTHEM
Scottsdale 4th of July Celebration at Westworld
5PM to 9:30 PM
Scottsdale, AZ
Indoor family fun featuring a bull-riding competition, mutton busting for children, the “Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show,” performances by characters from hit movie Encanto, games, a cake walk, and delicious food. This celebration also features a parade honoring local veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, and community leaders. It has one of the largest fireworks displays in the Phoenix Metro area.
July 2nd – 4th, 2022
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Scottsdale, AZ
This luxury resort located just off the 101 is hosting a variety of exclusive events, including nightly fireworks shows, poolside events, and a vintage air show on the 4th.
July 2nd to July 4th, 2022
W Resort
Old Town Scottsdale
Enjoy poolside dancing, cocktails, and food, as well as an evening fireworks display Monday evening.
Anthem Independence Day Celebration
July 3, 2022
5:30 to 9:30 PM
Anthem Community Park
Anthem, AZ
Celebrate Independence Day with fun rides, water slides, activities, and food! A fireworks show will close out the evening.
WEST VALLEY
July 2, 2022
5PM to 9PM
Phoenix Raceway
Avondale, AZ
Free general admission(VIP tickets available), open for tailgating with family and friends. Enjoy food trucks, games, and a Kid Zone with crafts and activities. Live music precedes a 25-minute spectacular fireworks show.
July 3, 2022
5PM to 9PM
Westgate Entertainment District
Glendale, AZ
Enjoy free face-painting, balloon twisting, a splash zone for kids, an open air beer garden, and games, followed by a fireworks show. There will be food and drink specials as well.
July 4, 2022
7PM to 8:30PM with fireworks to follow
The Wigwam
Litchfield Park, AZ
Featuring food, a live DJ, and fireworks show! Admission is free, food and drink tickets may be purchased in advance.
July 4, 2022
10:00AM to 5:00PM
Litchfield Park Recreation Center
Litchfield Park, AZ
A fun event for the whole family, this celebration takes place at the Rec Center pool. $5 at the door, free with a valid pool pass. Children 3 and under are admitted for free.
July 4th, 2022
5PM to 10PM
Peoria Sports Complex
Peoria, AZ
Enjoy food, live music, water slides, games, and family-friendly entertainment! This festival features a Sensory Room in the Visitor’s Clubhouse, which is a calming, sensory-friendly space for children, teens, and adults with sensory processing needs. Noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, plush chairs, and soft toys are available to ensure all attendees can enjoy the celebration. Sensory kits will also be available to check out during the event. Fireworks will begin at 9:10 PM, weather permitting.
Surprise Independence Day Celebration
Jul 2, 2022
6PM to 9PM
Enjoy live DJ music, inflatables for the kids, and food! Lawn seating only. Fireworks begin at 8:40. Admission is free but a donation of canned foods is encouraged.
July 4, 2022
6PM to 9:30 PM
Goodyear Ballpark
Goodyear, AZ
Enjoy two live bands, food and drink, giveaways, bounce houses, and fireworks display. Free parking and admission.
EAST VALLEY/SAN TAN
Arizona Celebration of Freedom
Mesa, AZ
Mesa Convention Center
June 29th to July 5th, 2022
One of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in the Phoenix Metro area. It runs for nearly a full week, featuring replicas of American buildings, a fallen soldiers memorial, and on the 4th, laser presentations, fireworks display, and historical war reenactments.
Gilbert 4th of July Celebration
July 4th, 2022
5PM to 9:30PM
Gilbert Regional Park
Gilbert, AZ
Free and fun for the whole family! There will be live music, arial performances, and fireworks! Enjoy free admission, or spring for the VIP package that includes exclusive food and drink vendors, restrooms, and swag.
Apache Junction 4th of July Fireworks Celebration
July 4th, 2022
6PM to 9PM
Apache Junction High School
Apache Junction, AZ
A free event open to the public featuring food, and games booths, as well as kids activities. A bicycle, tricycle, and mini-float contest will begin at 6:30 PM, and live music will follow. Enjoy food trucks and vendors, with a fireworks show at 8:30 PM(weather permitting).
July 4, 2022
4PM to 9PM
Schnepf Farms
Queen Creek, AZ
This spectacular celebration features food trucks, craft vendors, live music, rides, water inflatables, family activities, with fireworks following. In addition, there will also be a foam pit and a beer garden. Admission is $30 per carload, which includes admission for everyone in your car. Unlimited ride wristbands can be purchased online.
AHWATUKEE/CHANDLER/SOUTH PHOENIX
July 2, 2022
7PM to 9:30 PM
Downtown Chandler
Chandler, AZ
Enjoy live music, yard games, food vendors, and more! There will be a pyrotechnic show as part of the concert in lieu of fireworks this year that will begin at 8:20PM at the Chandler Park Stage Plaza.
Short Term Rental Manager has over 15 years of vacation rental management experience. Our in-house team maintenance team, in-home assistants, and communications team take care of everything. From bookings to cleanings to amenities and repairs, we have the tools and the staff to ensure a five-star experience for guests, while maximizing your return on investment. Visit our website to learn more or book a stay at one of our 30+ properties across the valley.
