As New Year’s Eve approaches, residents in Michigan can legally celebrate with fireworks. Under state law, fireworks can be launched from after 11:00 a.m. on December 31 until 1:00 a.m. on January 1. This timeframe allows Michiganders to ring in the New Year with festive displays.
Other Permitted Dates for Fireworks
In addition to New Year’s Eve, Michigan law permits the use of fireworks on specific dates throughout the year. These include the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Memorial Day, as well as June 29 to July 4. Fireworks can be set off during these periods from 11:00 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. If July 5 falls on a Friday or Saturday, the same hours apply. The weekend leading up to Labor Day is also included, with similar time restrictions. Local governments can establish additional days for fireworks use, but they cannot prohibit fireworks on the dates designated by the Michigan Legislature.
Types of Fireworks Allowed and Restrictions
The state allows the use of consumer-grade fireworks, which include items such as sparklers, smoke bombs, Roman candles, and aerial fireworks. These fireworks are available for purchase at retail locations. It is important to note that selling fireworks to minors is illegal in Michigan. Additionally, setting off fireworks on public property, including schools, sidewalks, and other private properties without permission, is prohibited. Violations can result in fines of up to $500.
Aerial fireworks, including Roman candles, are not permitted in Michigan state parks, trails, and harbors. However, smaller items like sparklers and fountains are allowed, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Safety Tips for Fireworks Use
To ensure a safe experience while using fireworks, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources recommends several safety measures.
Do:
– Supervise children when using fireworks and sparklers.
– Keep fireworks at a safe distance from your face.
– Use fireworks only on flat, paved, or gravel surfaces.
– Wet the area before and after using fireworks and dispose of used items in a bucket of water.
– Keep a water source handy to extinguish any embers.
Don’t:
– Attempt to relight fireworks that fail to ignite. Instead, wait 15 minutes and then place them in water.
– Launch fireworks in areas with dry grass or leaves, as this poses a fire risk.
For those with further questions about Michigan’s fireworks laws, the “Is it Legal?” feature by the Detroit Free Press offers a platform to submit inquiries at [email protected]. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these regulations to enjoy a safe and lawful celebration this New Year’s Eve.
