LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – It’s almost New Year’s Eve, and for some Michiganders, that means it’s time to stock up on the fireworks. Here are the state rules on when, where, and how you can set off your holiday explosives.
1 – Check local ordinances. A 2018 amendment to Michigan’s Fireworks Safety Act of 2011 gave local government entities the right to enact ordinances restricting residents’ use of fireworks. Such laws could restrict the times and locations you’re allowed to set off fireworks.
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2 – You’re good to go from Dec. 31 until 1:00 a.m. on Jan. 1. State laws supersede local ordinances to allow fireworks on New Year’s Eve (and the days surrounding Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day).
3 – Don’t set off fireworks from public property. Without the owner’s express permission, this must be your property. Fireworks may not be set off from church or school grounds.
4 – Don’t mix alcohol and fireworks. Whoever lights the fireworks must not be intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. Accidents with fireworks could result in misdemeanor or felony charges with imprisonment of up to 5 years and/or fines of up to $10,000.
5 – Don’t send your kids to buy fireworks. Consumer fireworks (including roman candles, bottle rockets, and other fireworks that leave the ground) can’t legally be sold to anyone under the age of 18. Novelty fireworks, however (such as sparklers, snakes, snaps, and poppers) are not regulated under Michigan’s Fireworks Safety Act.
According to a 2022 report by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, most firework injuries occurred around the July 4 holiday. But New Year’s Eve presents its own challenges. The most dangerous fireworks, according to the report, were firecrackers and sparklers, which racked up 1300 and 600 injuries respectively in 2022. Over 10,000 people were treated in the emergency room for firework-related injuries in the same year.
When purchasing fireworks, avoid those packaged in brown paper or other unlabeled paper, which are intended for professional use only. Also avoid carrying fireworks in pockets or shooting them off from metal or glass containers.
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A list of some fireworks displays and other New Year’s Eve celebrations in Michigan can be found on the Pure Michigan website.
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