Posted June 21, 2011

As July 4 approaches, residents and businesses should be aware that the Police Department will be continuing its “zero tolerance” policy regarding the illegal and unsafe sale and use of fireworks.

“Each year, we see cases of personal injury and damage to property when people use illegal fireworks,” said Police Chief Ron Haddad.

“City ordinances prohibit the sale and use of illegal fireworks, or the unsafe use of legal fireworks,” said Haddad.

Police officers will respond to fireworks complaints. Adults found to be violating the city’s fireworks ordinances will be ticketed.

Officers will not issue warnings for fireworks use.

Parents whose children are found to be violating fireworks ordinance may also be ticketed under the city’s parental responsibility ordinance.

Both cases are misdemeanor offenses, carrying a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.

In all cases, illegal fireworks will be confiscated.

To report fireworks in your neighborhood, call the Police at 943-2201.

Note that the Camp Dearborn Beach Bash, originally scheduled for July 2, has been canceled. That means there will not be a fireworks display at Camp Dearborn this year.