NE Valley Times

Scottsdale will close the McDowell Sonoran Preserve at noon on July 4 to mitigate wildfire risks. The preserve is scheduled to reopen around 5 a.m. on July 5, with all trailheads displaying "closed" signs. Police and staff will patrol the area to inform visitors about the closure and fire threat. Violating this closure is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to four months in jail and a $750 fine. Pinnacle Peak Park will remain open from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 4.

While some consumer fireworks are permitted by state law in Scottsdale during the holiday, their use remains illegal in sensitive desert areas, with violators facing substantial fines. Fire officials recommend leaving fireworks displays to professionals who have safety personnel present for immediate response to fire incidents. Fireworks are prohibited within Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Pinnacle Peak Park, and all properties within one mile of these areas. They are also banned on publicly owned properties such as city buildings, parking lots, parks, public schools, and streets.

Residents are reminded that fireworks, sparklers, hot charcoal, and propane tanks should not be disposed of in trash bins due to their potential fire hazards. Instead, these items should be taken to the city's hazardous waste program for proper disposal.

Scottsdale's 10th annual Fourth of July Celebration will take place at WestWorld from 5-9 p.m., featuring live entertainment and family-friendly activities like a rodeo and medieval times junior knight training. The event concludes with one of Arizona's largest fireworks displays and aims for zero waste through composting efforts with Recycled City.

Most city offices will be closed on Independence Day; however, trash and recycling schedules remain unchanged.