It’s the 4th of July! Happy independence day guys!
If you’re like most Michiganians, you’re planning to spend today with friends and loved ones, grilling, swimming, and enjoying the sunshine (because boy oh boy we’ve had a lot of rain lately!) And later on tonight? Well, it’s fireworks time, obviously! And everyone (except certain furry members of our families) loves fireworks! The glitter and sparkle of each explosion, the bright pops of color against the dark night sky – it’s like a little taste of magic.
Know the rules so you can stay out of trouble!
But that magical moment can turn ugly in a hurry if you’re not following the laws – and yes – the cops are out in full force on Independence day, looking for people driving drunk and making dangerous choices that could start fires or harm others. So if you’re hoping to end the 4th relaxing with friends, and not sitting around in the county jail, here are some facts you need to know.
Which fireworks are we allowed to use in Michigan?
Novelty fireworks: sparklers, snaps, poppers and snakes
Consumer fireworks: roman candles, bottle rockets, missile type rockets, aerials, reloadable shell devices, firecrackers, Helicopter/aerial spinners, and single tube devices with report
Low impact fireworks: ground sparkling devices, ground-based or handheld sparklers, ground sparkling devices, and smoke devices
The firework laws changed recently in Michigan.
A few years ago the Michigan legislature voted to allow Michigan folks to set off fireworks in a wide range of places, and for long periods of time. But as it turns out, not everyone appreciated the unrestricted fireworks party. Many people complained, and eventually – in December of 2018 – the laws were changed again. So this will be the first 4th of July under the new rules. So here’s what you need to know so you can avoid a pricey ticket, or a night in the county lock up.
What days can you set off fireworks in Michigan on July 4th?
Last year people were allowed to set off fireworks for the 30 days surrounding independence day, but that’s not the case anymore. Now, you can set off fireworks from June 29th to July 4th until 11:45 pm on each of those days. On July 5th, assuming that day happens to be a Friday or a Saturday (which is luckily the case this year!), you can light fireworks until 11:45 pm.
Where can you light fireworks in Michigan?
There are specific places you’re allowed to light or discharge fireworks in Michigan, and specific places you can’t. Curious about what’s off limits? Well, there are certainly some places you can’t ignite fireworks without getting permission first, including public property, school property, church property, and another person’s property. So be sure to light your fireworks on your own property, or get permission before setting up your evening’s pyrotechnic entertainment!
Remember to stay sober while lighting your fireworks!
Michigan law is very specific about mixing alcohol and fireworks, specifically – you can’t use low impact or consumer fireworks while you’re under the influence of any type of drugs or alcohol (and that includes any combination of drugs and alcohol as well!). So be sure to stay sober! That way you can make smart choices and enjoy your 4th of July without having to worry about accidentally setting your house (or your friends) on fire, or getting the cops called.
However, if you end up in the klink this holiday…
It happens. People have a few too many, and make dumb choices. Or they get caught up in the moment and don’t think through what they’re doing. And before you know it the cops are there and the only pretty lights you get to watch against the night sky are the red and blue kind that come with sirens. So make sure you have our number on hand (866 766 5245) so that if your night takes an unexpected downturn, you can get the help you need, when you need it. We’ll be here.