The 4th of July is around the corner, and many people plan to light off fireworks in celebration. Before doing so, it is important to know the firework laws in your state. Read on to learn more about Georgia’s firework laws.
When it Comes to Fireworks, What is Legal?
In Georgia, you can only use fireworks at certain times. You can legally use fireworks:
- Any day between 10 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.
- Regardless of local legislation, the use of fireworks is legal until 11:59 p.m. statewide around certain holidays:
- Memorial Day (last Saturday and Sunday in May)
- Independence Day (July 3 and 4)
- Labor Day (first Monday in September)
- New Year’s Eve (December 31, extended to 1 a.m. on January 1)
What is Illegal?
It is important to know that you cannot use fireworks within 100 yards of a:
- Electric plant
- Water treatment plant
- Waste-water treatment plant
- Gas station
- Refinery
- Electric substation
- Jail or prison
- Helipad
- Hospital
- Nursing home
- Other health care facility
You cannot use fireworks:
- Within any park, historic site, recreational area, or other state property
- While under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Safety Precautions to Take?
To avoid any accidents, be sure to take the following precautions:
- You must be at least 18 years old to purchase fireworks.
- Do not allow children near fireworks, and ensure they never light them off. Fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults.
- Always keep your pets inside, as oftentimes, setting off fireworks can cause them to run away, behave aggressively, or simply act abnormally.
- Do not light off fireworks unless you have a fire extinguisher and a garden hose nearby, just in case.
- If you are about to light off a firework, ensure that you do not stand over it while doing so.
- When you light off a firework that doesn’t go off, do not try and relight it. Instead, pour cool water over it and throw it in the garbage after.
- Do not set off a firework until everyone is far enough away that injury cannot occur. Having people too close to the fireworks can result in serious burn injuries.
- Do not throw a firework away, after lighting, until you’ve doused it in cool water. A hot firework can start a trash can fire.
- Ensure that fireworks are legal in your area before setting them off.
- Never set off fireworks without wearing protective glasses.
If you break these firework laws, you can face legal trouble. If you are facing charges, our firm is here to help. Reach out today to speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney.
Contact Our Experienced Firm
We at the Miller Law Practice understand that people make mistakes. We are here to fight for you throughout all of your criminal law matters. Do not hesitate to contact our firm today and speak with an experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorney.