With July 4th just around the corner, here are a few friendly reminders regarding fireworks:
-The City of Waynesboro Ordinance No. 50-27 (11) prohibits "the explosion of firecrackers, skyrockets, Roman candles, pinwheels or any other form of fireworks" at all times and at all places within the city.
-However, pursuant to O.C.G.A. 25-10-2, regardless of local legislation, the use of fireworks is legal statewide until 11:59 p.m. on certain holidays, which are listed below:
- Memorial Day (the last Saturday and Sunday in May);
- Independence Day (July 3 and July 4);
- Labor Day (first Monday in September);
- New Year's Eve (includes 12/31 and 1/1 - extension to 1 a.m. on 1/1)
-However, even on the above allowed holidays, certain restrictions on ignition remain in place, such as:
- An individual needs to be over 18 years of age to purchase and use fireworks;
- It is illegal to use fireworks under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- It is illegal to use fireworks within 100 yards of any of the following locations/facilities: electric plant, water treatment plant, waste-water treatment plant, gas station, refinery, electric substation, jail or prison, helipad, hospital, nursing home or other care facility;
- It is illegal to use fireworks within any park, historic site, recreational area, or other state property.
-Please be respectful and courteous of your neighbors who may not enjoy fireworks, may suffer from PTSD, or may have pets that are frightened by them. Also, remember that not everyone has the same holidays off from work and may be trying to sleep. If you plan to use fireworks, we encourage you to talk with your neighbors ahead of time and try to accommodate their needs.
-If you are someone who does not like fireworks, please remember that Georgia law does allow those over age 18 to use them within the hours noted above. If a neighbor who plans to use fireworks comes to talk with you ahead of time, be respectful of their rights under the law and keep in mind that they are talking with you out of courtesy.
-Above all, please be safe and treat others as you would want to be treated.