Many Alabamians will take part in the timeless tradition of shooting fireworks this Independence Day.
While some families may opt to go to a public display, others will enjoy lighting their own sparklers, Roman Candles, Whistlin’ Bughholes, Spleen Splitters, Whisker Biscuits, Honkey Lighters, Hoosker Dos and Hoosker Don’ts, from their backyard.
However, that could be illegal within some city limits. Over the years, due to noise complaints, serious injuries and fire hazards, cities have passed ordinances prohibiting the ignition of certain pyrotechnics and displays.
In some cities, the sale of such items is prohibited, and in others, the ordinances may be more extreme.
Merely possessing fireworks is illegal in some cities, including Athens, Hoover, Foley, Mobile, Montgomery, Mountain Brook, Muscle Shoals, Tarrant, Trussville and Vestavia Hills. That means driving through a city with fireworks in a vehicle could be illegal.
In most cases, a violation is a misdemeanor; depending on the municipality, the fine is anywhere from $25 to $50. In other cases, the only penalty is confiscating and destroying the fireworks.
Foley Fire Chief Joey Darby said the ordinance protects residents. Sparklers and dipped sticks are allowed within city limits.
Even though shooting fireworks is against the law, Darby said it still happens.
“We still deal with numerous discharges of consumer fireworks throughout the city each year, especially during the holidays,” said Darby.
Darby said anyone shooting fireworks is usually asked to stop.
“If necessary, the ordinance allows us to confiscate the fireworks as contraband,” he added. “If the fireworks are used improperly or maliciously other charges could apply.”
Shooting fireworks isn't the only issue. According to the city ordinance on fireworks, even people driving through Foley to get to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach are in violation if they possess fireworks.
Foley executive director of public safety David Wilson told 1819 News the ordinance gives the city a “means of enforcement as a last resort.”
“It is important to have something in place if somebody gets troublesome with fireworks depending on the scenario and situation,” Wilson said.
Although the ordinance is on the books, Wilson said he doesn’t know of many cases in which anyone has gotten in trouble over fireworks in Foley.
Wilson said he hopes everyone can safely celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.
“We’re not really driving around looking for this stuff,” he added. “We get plenty of calls to keep us busy on those [holiday] nights.”
Darby agreed and encouraged everyone to celebrate. He suggested one of the many professionally managed fireworks shows on the Gulf Coast this week.
“For those using consumer fireworks lawfully outside of the city limits, I recommend that a responsible adult is always present and that the fireworks are discharged in a safe area well away from buildings and roadways and that they have at least a bucket of water on standby at all times,” he said.
So, this July 4, before you go to town with your Lady Fingers, Fuzz Buttles, Snicker Bombs, Snakes and Sparklers, be sure to check the local municipal code to avoid any penalties. You can check most city codes online.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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