Tents and storefronts selling fireworks have popped up in and around Seymour, and the sounds of booms, crackles and pops have arrived.

Seymour Fire Chief Brad Lucas reminds area residents about the designated times fireworks can be set off to keep people safe and from bothering neighbors.

According to city ordinance, the use of fireworks is prohibited in Seymour city limits, except:

Between 5 p.m. and two hours after sunset June 29 and 30, July 1 to 3 and July 5 to 9.

On July 4, fireworks can be set off between 10 a.m. and midnight.

Any person convicted of violating the ordinance faces a potential fine of as much as $2,500. Fines can increase for each repeat offense, according to the ordinance.

Lucas said there already have been complaints to police of “loud booms” throughout neighborhoods.

If fireworks are used on private property, he encourages people to follow instructions and be smart.

“Use common sense,” he said. “Don’t put the display right up against your house.”

He also said residents should take advantage of the free fireworks display offered at the city’s Fourth of July celebration at Freeman Field Sports Complex. The show will begin at 10 p.m. weather permitting.

In the county, Lt. Andy Wayman with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department said residents typically have to follow state law, which states:

Only people 18 and older can buy fireworks.

Someone 18 or older must be present when anyone younger than 18 is using or possessing fireworks.

Fireworks can be used only on the user’s property, the property of someone who granted permission for fireworks to be discharged or a place designated by the state fire marshal.

Fireworks may be discharged from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. any day. On Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day and New Year’s Eve, discharge times are 9 a.m. to midnight.

Wayman said he hasn’t heard any complaints yet, but like Lucas, he wants residents to take proper precautions.

“Don’t let anyone under the age of 18 handle them,” he said. “Be careful and have a fire extinguisher handy.”

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According to city ordinance, the use of fireworks by any person is prohibited in the corporate limits of Seymour except during the following periods:

Between the hours of 5 p.m. and two hours after sunset on June 29, June 30, July 1, July 2, July 3, July 5, July 6, July 7, July 8 and July 9 each year.

On July 4, the law states fireworks can be set between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight each year. 

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