Firework laws, safety, and regulations have been a talking point for Minnesotans gearing up for the Independence Day Holiday. In 2022, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety had 96 reported fireworks incidents, with 11 people injured, one death, and over $760,000 in property damages in the state.
CROOKSTON POLICE TO MONITOR FOURTH OF JULY ACTIVITIES
The Crookston Police Department will be active with the Fourth of July around the corner, with noise complaints and illegal fireworks. “We’re going to be visible and out there on patrol. We have a full staff for the weekend, which is exciting for us,” said Deputy Chief of the Crookston Police Department Nate Nelson. “We’ll just have the units out there patrolling and keeping an eye out for things and responding to calls when they come up.”
The Crookston Police Department is encouraging everybody to celebrate the Fourth of July accordingly, with requests to follow guidelines and respect others. “We want everyone to have a fun weekend, that’s most important,” said Nelson. But be safe about it and make good decisions; that can be tough sometimes but make the right ones.”
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OFFICERS ON DUTY
Officers will be patrolling most areas due to complaints and phone calls, but they may come unannounced and talk to you about safety during the holiday. “Our general approach is to have a good conversation and enlighten people on the laws and rules. If the case is presented, we may give citations,” said Nelson. “For the most part, our interactions are to educate and give warnings for fireworks.” Nelson said it can be challenging to track where fireworks are coming from when at a distance.
MESSAGE TO CROOKSTON RESIDENTS
With all the regulations and rules applying to the holiday, Nelson wanted to give a positive message to Crookston residents about being mindful while making memories. “Just be courteous of your neighbors; if you see something, report it to us,” said Nelson. “Those who are staying in Crookston and celebrating the Fourth, just stay mindful of your neighbors, understand that not everybody stays up real late, and have fun.” If you are partaking in alcohol consumption, make sure a sober driver is available.
WHAT’S LEGAL?
By definition: Any substance or combination of fireworks for visible or audible effect by combustion explosion is illegal in Minnesota.
The laws of Minnesota Firework usage state anything that explodes or shoots in the air is deemed illegal for the public to use. However, wire and wood sparklers are legal, and fountain fireworks sit on the ground, like ground spinners.
SIZE LIMITATIONS
There are size limitations on fireworks packaging that include 75 grams per nonaerial firework, and half of a kilogram or less per group of nonaerial fireworks are lawful for the public to use on private property. This means firecrackers, parachutes, bottle rockets, Roman candles, shells, or skyrockets are illegal without a certified operator permit.
