FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)— Do you know all of the laws Indiana has on fireworks? The Knox County Sheriff’s Office is giving a refresher on the Fourth of July so you know the safest way to celebrate.
- Fireworks can only be purchased by persons 18 years of age or older.
- Fireworks use is limited to personal property, the property of someone who has approved the use of fireworks, or a location designated specifically for the use of consumer fireworks.
- Throughout the year, it is legal in Indiana to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., but this may be limited further by local ordinances. Citizens living in city limits should check with local officials.
- On state holidays, it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to midnight.
- The times on the following dates are protected in Indiana for consumer use of fireworks and may not be prohibited by local ordinance:
- June 29 to July 3: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset
- July 4: from 10 a.m. to midnight
- July 5 to July 9: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset
- December 31: from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
- All public fireworks displays must receive a state permit, which includes approval by the chief of the local fire department. A permit is needed not only to conduct the display, but also to possess and transport the fireworks used in these shows.
- Fireworks laws and safety are covered in IC 22-11-14-6. A person who violates this law can be charged with a class “C” infraction. However, if a person recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally uses fireworks and the violation causes property damage, they can be charged with a class A misdemeanor. If there is bodily injury, it is enhanced to a Level 6 felony, and if there is death, a Level 5 felony.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office added that it’s important to remember those with PTSD and other medical conditions who could be affected by the usage of fireworks. It’s also good to remember that setting them too late at night can disturb others’ sleeping habits. Similarly, dogs and other animals can be sensitive to the bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells that fireworks create. This can lead to animals reacting in fear, such as hiding, shaking, barking, or running away to escape a stressful environment.
