Flint, Michigan – As Flint residents get more and more excited for Independence Day, city leaders are urging them to observe local fireworks restrictions to keep the celebrations safe and respectful. Mayor Sheldon Neeley, together with the Flint Fire and Police Departments, is reminding everyone about the city’s fireworks rules to make sure that celebrations don’t disturb the peace or put neighbors at risk.
Flint’s rules and Michigan state law say that people are allowed to set off fireworks from June 29 to July 2, and only between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. On the day before, the day of, and the day following significant events like Independence Day, you can also use fireworks. Fireworks are not allowed at any other time or day, notably between midnight and 8 a.m., when quiet hours are in place.
Breaking these rules could result in serious consequences. If you use fireworks outside of the legal time frame, you might get a $500 fine and the police can take the fireworks away from you. Officials claim that the rules are there to keep everyone safe and healthy, not to ruin the fun.
Mayor Neeley emphasized the importance of being mindful of others when celebrating.
“We look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July with pride, joy, and community spirit,” said Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “But we must also be mindful of our neighbors, especially veterans, seniors, young children, and pets, who may be impacted by loud, late-night fireworks. Let’s celebrate responsibly and make sure everyone in our community feels safe and included.”
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The law also says that fireworks can’t be set off in public places like streets, parks, school grounds, or church premises unless the property owner gets permission. That means that shooting off fireworks on a neighbor’s property without their permission is not only rude, it’s against the law.
Officials in the city also pointed out the difference between low-impact novelty products and fireworks for sale to the public. There are rigorous rules around consumer fireworks, which are anything that makes an explosion or fire that can be seen. But there are no such rules for goods like sparklers, snappers, smoke bombs, and small novelty snakes.
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The City of Flint is asking everyone to be careful and respectful of others as Independence Day approaches. By following these basic but crucial rules, people can help make sure that everyone has a fun, safe, and joyous holiday.