Council adopts new fireworks time windows, larger civil fines and a sky-lantern ban

The Greenville City Council on Nov. 7 approved new local rules on fireworks and banned sky lanterns.

Ordinance No. 23-08 amends Chapter 20 (Fire Prevention and Protection) to define fireworks categories (consumer fireworks, low-impact fireworks, display fireworks), establish permissible dates and hours for consumer fireworks (including Dec. 31–Jan.1 and June 29–July 5 with specified daily windows), require retailers to hold valid certification or registration under the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act (Act 256, MCL 28.451 et seq.), set permit procedures and fees for displays, require proof of financial responsibility for certain uses, and designate violations as civil infractions punishable by fines up to $1,000. The ordinance text specifies that $500 of the $1,000 fine must be remitted to the local law enforcement agency and allows the city to dispose of fireworks retained as evidence; it also requires reimbursement to the city for evidence storage or disposal costs.

Separately, Ordinance No. 23-09 adds a prohibition on the ignition or use of sky lanterns (defined as unmanned luminary devices using heated air) on private or public property and makes violations municipal civil infractions with a civil fine of not less than $250 plus costs.

Both ordinances passed on unanimous votes. Councilmember Johnson moved the fireworks amendment and Councilmember Lehman seconded; Ordinance 23-08 was adopted 7–0. Councilmember Moss moved the sky-lantern ban, Councilmember Barrus seconded; Ordinance 23-09 was adopted 7–0.

What to watch: The fireworks ordinance ties local rules to the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act and creates permit and insurance requirements for displays; sellers must comply with state certification and storage rules. The city also tightened enforcement with higher fines and a specific remittance to law enforcement.