Farmington Officials May Add Fireworks Restrictions

The Code of Ordinances doesn't specifically mention fireworks, but that could change if a proposed addition is approved in August. 

At Monday's city council meeting, officials introduced an ordinance that would restrict the use of consumer fireworks – like bottle rockets, roman candles and firecrackers – to days now allowed under state law. Michigan Public Act 256 prohibits cities from restricting fireworks on 10 federal holidays, along with the day before and the day after each holiday.

Included are New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

"Some of them don't reflect what you would typically associate with fireworks," city manager Vince Pastue said. 

He said one of the complaints about the new law is that it appears to have resulted in a "perpetual display of fireworks in some cities".

Council member JoAnne McShane said while she was visiting the west side of the state, there were small fires as a result of fireworks combined with the dry grass. In addition to the danger to people, she said, fighting those fires can be costly. She asked city attorney Tom Schultz whether the ordinance protected the city in that regard.

"No, because it's everything we're allowed to do," Schultz replied. He said the ordinance reflects what is in the state law. 

McShane said she hopes the law goes back to the legislature for revisions. "There's a lot of danger involved," she said. 

As with state law, the proposed prohibition does not apply to low-impact fireworks like sparklers. Fireworks would be prohibited on public, school or church properties, or on private property without the owner's permission. And they can't be ignited by anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. 

The  city council recently introduced .