Fireworks

A new fireworks Ordinance was passed in Swatara Township (Harrisburg, PA) on May 8th, 2019. The new Ordinance was created to keep our community members and their neighborhoods safe during the use of consumer fireworks. It will also be used as a tool by Swatara Township Police Officers and Fire Department Chiefs to ensure that fireworks are being utilized properly. The Ordinance mirrors some of the regulations established by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 2017 (Act 43). The new Ordinance covers both consumer fireworks and display fireworks (“display fireworks” are large fireworks to be used solely by professional pyrotechnicians). The full version of the Ordinance is available online at https://www.ecode360.com/SW2044?needHash=true Referring to consumer fireworks, the new Ordinance states:

Conditions—A person who is at least 18 years of age and meets the requirements of this section may purchase, possess, and use consumer fireworks.  A person under 18 years of age may intentionally ignite or discharge consumer fireworks only when under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, or responsible adult acting in loco parentis.

Prohibitions—A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge:

Consumer fireworks on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner.

Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices within, or throw consumer fireworks or sparkling devices from, a motor vehicle or building. Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices into or at a motor vehicle, building, or another person.

Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug.

Consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure.

Consumer fireworks between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. between January 2 and December 31.

Consumer fireworks between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on January 1.

Consumer fireworks on a date that is not within 7 calendar days of a recognized Federal holiday.

A violation of the Ordinance may result in a citation with a fine of up to $100 for inappropriate use of consumer fireworks, and a fine of up to $2,000 for inappropriate use of display fireworks.

Sourced via CRIMEWATCH®: https://dauphin.crimewatchpa.com/swatarapd/3028/post/new-fireworks-ordin…