City drops fireworks days down

SANDUSKY — Local officials blasted their new laws as they pertain to fireworks. In email bulletins, social media posts and through other communication, Sandusky officials recently publicized their efforts to curb firework usage within city limits. Here's what people need to know. The old law • What: Previously, Sandusky followed state law as to when people could legally discharge fireworks. • When: The state allows Ohioans to discharge fireworks on: — July 3-5 and the weekends immediately before and after the Fourth of July holiday — Labor Day — Diwali — New Year's Eve — New Year's Day — Chinese New Year — Cinco de Mayo — Memorial Day weekend — Juneteenth The new law • What: At a recent public meeting, commissioners changed the city's fireworks code, ultimately reducing the number of days residents can legally discharge fireworks. • When: "With this change, fireworks are now limited to five designated days each year, down from the broader set of holidays previously permitted," according to a city statement. The city now only allows locals to discharge fireworks from 4-11:59 p.m. on the following days: — Jan. 1/New Year's Day — June 19/Juneteenth — July 3 for the eve of Independence Day — July 4 for Independence Day — Dec. 31/New Year's Eve • Why: "The decision follows ongoing complaints from residents about fireworks use and concerns for public safety, property and quality of life," the statement read. Sandusky city commissioner Dennis Murray Jr. expanded upon this point. "Responding to decades of demands, the Ohio legislature largely legalized residential fireworks in 2022. Sandusky was one of many cities that exercised its authority to limit fireworks to certain days. But the public demanded that we scale that back, in large part, because the law was abused but also because, after demanding legalization of fireworks, most people found that was not really what we wanted." He continued: "The city commission and staff listened, and we recently significantly tightened our legislation. For those who continue the abusive use of fireworks, our staff is exploring new, innovative forms of enforcement." Sandusky police Chief Jared Oliver thanked commissioners for limiting the number of days people in the city can legally discharge fireworks. "Restricting the dates strikes a balance for the peace of mind for members of the community while still allowing others to enjoy fireworks on the designated holidays," Oliver said. Violations of the city's fireworks code or state law may result in fines or misdemeanor charges, according to the statement. "As a reminder, officers must witness an individual actively discharging fireworks to issue a citation or make an arrest," Oliver said. "Residents are asked to report any violations so that the complaint can be properly investigated." People can visit cityofsandusky.com/fireworks for more information. What Ohio law allows Sandusky's police officers and firefighters remind residents that fireworks can pose significant risks to personal safety, property, and pets. State law permits fireworks to be discharged on private property with the owner's consent but imposes strict safety requirements. Under the state's law and fire code: • Only adults 18 and older may handle or discharge fireworks. • Fireworks cannot be used while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Aerial fireworks must be set off at least 150 feet from spectators, and ground-level fireworks must be at least 50 feet away. • Fireworks cannot be discharged indoors, on public property or aimed at buildings, people or vehicles. • Fireworks cannot be discharged during drought conditions or red flag weather warnings.