The time for fireworks will soon be upon us, though some area residents are already lighting up the skies. The state has its own fireworks laws that specify when fireworks can be discharged, though a number of communities such as Winamac, Knox, and Plymouth have adopted their own ordinances that limit when and where fireworks can be used.
According to the state laws, fireworks can only be discharged at special discharge locations, the person’s property, or the property of another who has given permission to do so. Anyone under the age of 18 who wishes to use fireworks must be accompanied by an adult, and fireworks can only be lit before 11 p.m. and after 9 a.m. However, on Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day and New Year’s Eve, fireworks may be discharged until midnight.
In the cities of Knox and Plymouth and the town of Winamac, however, fireworks may only be ignited from June 29 to July 9 between 5 p.m. and two hours after sunset. On July 4, however, fireworks may be discharged between 10 a.m. and midnight, and for the new year holiday, they can be used between 10 a.m. and on Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. on Jan. 1.
According to Culver Town Manager David Schoeff, the only restrictions on fireworks in the town of Culver, besides the state’s law, is a noise ordinance from 2010 that restricts sounds associated with the use of fireworks, allowing them only between June 29 and July 8, and from Dec. 31 to Jan. 2.
Other communities, such as North Judson and Francesville, only adhere to the state’s requirements. For information on any ordinances that may be in effect in your area, contact your local auditor’s office.
