As Independence Day celebrations approach, Westland officials are reminding residents of the restrictions on fireworks in the city.
The city ordinance that governs the use of fireworks was changed by members of the council in June, 2019 to align with the Michigan State Firework Safety Act of 2018. The state rules now allow more municipal control of fireworks.
Officials said that the issue generated a significant number of complaints from residents each year, particularly during the warmer months.
"This amendment is aimed to address and alleviate citizen's frustrations and concerns for our friends and neighbors who have bad reactions to fireworks," officials said at the time the new ordinance was approved.
The adopted amendment to the city ordinance reduces the number of days and time allowed for fireworks to 12. Fireworks can only be ignited during the hours between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. except Dec. 31 when they are permitted between 11 a.m. and 1 a.m. on Jan. 1.
The 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. restrictions are in effect on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Memorial Day and on each of those holidays; on June 29 to July 4 and on each of those holidays; on July 5, but only if that date is a Friday or Saturday and the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Labor Day and on that holiday.
Each violation will now result in a civil infraction with a fine of $1,000.
To report the misuse of fireworks in Westland, contact the Westland Police Department non-emergency phone line at (734)722-9600.
