PROVO, Utah — A brush fire that burned half an acre in Provo was started by an illegal firework, and Provo Fire & Rescue said the individual who discharged the firework could be held responsible for over $4,000 in firefighting costs and fines.

Crews responded to 4410 Mile High Drive and extinguished the fire Monday, saying the firework was discharged outside of the open fireworks window and in an area where fireworks are prohibited.

“This incident highlights the conditions that fire officials, community leaders, and a lot of community members fear as we approach the Fourth of July holiday;” said Fire Marshal Lynn Schofield with Provo Fire & Rescue. It is important that every citizen who is considering using fireworks this season follow all of the rules in order to protect our communities.”

The individual who lit the firework that started the fire, a minor, could face charges of discharging fireworks outside of the open fireworks window and discharging fireworks in a restricted area — both Class B misdemeanors with penalties of up to $1,000.

They could also be forced to pay the $2,420 that it cost to suppress the fire.

Firefighters urged residents to discharge fireworks in an approved park. Provo has raised the number of approved parks from five to 14.

“We cannot legally ban the use of fireworks, or realistically enforce a ban when fireworks are available just across the border. We just have to provide as many safe alternatives as we can, and count on our citizens to be responsible – and do the right thing,” Schofield said.

Chief James Miguel added: “I have not seen this anywhere else in my career; we provide safe places to discharge fireworks, enforce, and protect our urban interface – and by and large our citizens comply.”