After spending hard-earned cash on fireworks to celebrate Independence Day, the last thing you want to do is shell out more money for a fine. Here is a list of some of the laws in Michigan, as well as some of the stricter guidelines in the city of Warren.
In Michigan:
- It's only legal to shoot off fireworks the holiday, the day before and the day after the holiday. This year that means Monday to Wednesday, from 8 p.m. to midnight only.
- You may only light fireworks on personal property only. That means no parks, schools, streets, sidewalks or church parking lots.
- Using fireworks while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs is illegal.
City firework rules may be even more strict than statewide. In Warren, the city created a special task force to patrol for violators. Mayor James Fouts will ride along with police while they enforce the city fireworks laws.
In Warren:
- Fireworks cannot disrupt the peace or cause debris on private or public property.
- Fireworks must be set off at least 30 feet away from any house, building, vehicle or landscaping.
- Fireworks cannot be set off after 11 p.m.
Fines also vary, but most are $500. If someone is injured or killed, or property is damaged from a firework, the person who lit it could face up to five years in jail, a $10,000 penalty or both,.
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website provides more information on fireworks rules and regulations in the state.
City of Warren Fireworks ordinance language can be found here.
