Be Safe and Courteous When Celebrating with Fireworks

Published on June 26, 2024

Fireworks display

Be safe and courteous if you plan to celebrate with fireworks! State and local law allows fireworks to be used between during the dates and times listed below. Fireworks are not allowed in city parks or on school grounds, so please only use them on private property. Using fireworks outside of these permitted times, on public property without approval, or while under the influence of intoxicants could result in a fine of up to $1,000. 

To report violations of fireworks ordinances, please call Kalamazoo Public Safety non-emergency at (269) 488-8911. 

Always remember that fireworks can be dangerous and cause serious injury. Take steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved: 

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
  • Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
  • Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
  • Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
  • Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
  • Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
  • After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

When are fireworks allowed?

State and local laws only permit fireworks to be used during specific dates and times. State law permits fireworks to be used on the following dates and times: 

  • New Year's Eve: Starting at 11 a.m. on December 31 until 1 a.m. on January 1
  • Memorial Day: The Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. 
  • Independence Day: Starting June 29 through July 4 between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m., (and on July 5 if it is a Friday or Saturday only)
  • Labor Day: The Saturday and Sunday before Labor Day between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. 

City of Kalamazoo ordinance also permits fireworks to be used to celebrate Juneteenth each year: 

  • Juneteenth: On June 19 from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday, otherwise on the third Saturday in June.

Where can I find ordinances related to fireworks?

You can view local ordinances regarding fireworks here.

Be considerate of your neighbors

Fireworks can be a trauma reminder for people who have served in combat and be distressing to children, pets, and animals. Be courteous and check with your neighbors to make sure you won’t be ruining someone’s holiday- and you can always check out a public fireworks display!

 

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