With the 4th of July now less than two weeks away, South Haven Police Chief Natalie Thompson is reminding everyone about consumer fireworks laws in the state of Michigan and what is and isn’t allowed going forward.
Thompson says, “The law allows citizens to use ‘consumer fireworks.’ Examples of which are firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles.” She adds, “We ask all citizens using these fireworks to use extreme caution due to high risks of injuries.” She notes that in accordance with the City’s ordinance, consumer fireworks are allowed only at the following times:
- Between 11:00am and 1:00am on December 31st;
- From 11:00am to 11:45pm on the Saturday and Sunday preceding Memorial Day;
- Between 11:00 am and 11:45 pm on June 29th, June 30th, July 1st, July 2nd, July 3rd and July 4th and on July 5th if that date is a Friday or Saturday; and
- Between 11:00am and 11:45pm on the Saturday or Sunday preceding Labor Day.
Thompson reminds everyone, “It is illegal for a person to discharge fireworks on public, school, church or private property without permission of the owner. That includes all public parks and beaches of South Haven.” She warns as well, “The fines have also increased to a maximum penalty of $1000,” and concludes, “Citizens are asked to be considerate of others while celebrating the holiday. It is our hope that all citizens will enjoy a safe and happy July 4th.”
While Thompson’s comments are targeted for South Haven, many other local police and fire chiefs would likely concur and share the same message in each local community across the region.