The South Bend Fire and Police Departments encourage residents to enjoy fireworks in the safest possible manner.  "For everyone's safety, we recommend enjoying fireworks presented by trained professionals," said former Fire Chief Luther Taylor. "However, if residents wish to purchase fireworks for private use, we urge them to abide by the new State Fireworks Law, and use fireworks responsibly and with appropriate safety precautions."

Fireworks F.A.Q.

The new State Law governing the use and sale of fireworks in Indiana is now in effect, and the following changes apply to South Bend residents:

• Only adults age 18 and older are allowed to purchase fireworks, for use in Indiana.
  
  
• Private fireworks may be set off ONLY on the user's property, the property of someone who has consented to the use of fireworks, or at a special discharge location designated by the State Fire Marshal. Fireworks may not be discharged on public property, such as in streets or parks, without special permits issued by the State Fire Marshal and local Fire Chief.
  
  
• Users are responsible for all debris resulting from the discharge of private fireworks. If a user sets off fireworks on their own private property, and debris or other material lands on a neighbor's property, who has not granted permission to discharge fireworks, the user is in violation of the law.
  
  
• No person may use, ignite or discharge consumer fireworks within the corporate limits of the City of South Bend except during the following times:
• Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on June 29, 30, July 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
• Between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight on July 4; and
• Between the hours of 10:00 a.m. on December 31 and 1:00 a.m. on January 1.
  
  
• Any person violating this subsection shall be subject to the following penalties:
• One hundred dollars ($100.00) for a first offense;
• Two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) for a second;
• Five hundred dollars ($500.00) for a third offense and every subsequent.
  

Violations of the new law can result in fines and criminal charges. Captain Phil Trent, Community Relations for the South Bend Police Department, commented, "The use of private fireworks can be very disruptive, as well as a safety risk. We urge everyone to respect the law and respect each other, by exercising common sense and courtesy toward their neighbors as they celebrate."

IMPORTANT SAFETY PROCEDURES:

If you choose to set off private fireworks on your property, instead of or in addition to attending a professional fireworks event, please abide closely by the following Safety Procedures, for your safety, as well as that of your loved ones, neighbors and the community.

• Make sure to have a responsible adult supervise all fireworks activities. Do not let children play with or light any fireworks without an adult present.
  
  
• Use fireworks in an open area away from buildings or combustible materials. Keep your audience a safe distance away from the shooting site.
  
  
• Safety glasses should be used by those lighting the fireworks or anyone in close proximity to the fireworks.
  
  
• Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, which is more prone to catch sparks that could catch on fire.
  
  
• Have a hose, bucket of water or water supply, or a fire extinguisher nearby and pay attention to the wind direction.

Further information regarding Indiana's new Fireworks Law is available by calling 235-9255. With your help, we can avoid the often disastrous accidents and injuries caused by the careless use of fireworks.

INDIANA FIREWORKS: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the laws concerning homemade fireworks (i.e. What about homemade firecrackers? What is considered too "large"?)

• Any firework that does not have a label with 1.4G or Consumer Protection Safety Council (CPSC) on it is illegal, including homemade firecrackers.

Is there a required age to possess/use sparklers?

• Persons must be 18 years of age or older to possess/use sparklers, unless there is an adult present at all times.

When can consumer fireworks be used within the City of South Bend limits?

• Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on June 29, 30, July 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
• Between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight on July 4; and
• Between the hours of 10:00 a.m. on December 31 and 1:00 a.m. on January 1.
  
  

Neighbor A shot off bottle rockets and they landed in Neighbor B's yard. Is Neighbor A violating the law?

• Yes, if Neighbor B did not grant Neighbor A permission to discharge fireworks on their property (a Class C Infraction).

South Bend Fire Department
1222 South Michigan St.
South Bend, Indiana 46601
574.235.9255