As the Fourth of July nears, both the Fire and Police Departments receive many questions regarding fireworks in the City of Fitchburg. The City of Fitchburg ordinance regarding fireworks adopts the State of Wisconsin law.
The law allows the sale, possession and use, without a permit, of sparklers not exceeding 36 inches in length, stationary cones and fountains, toy snakes, smoke bombs, caps, noisemakers, confetti poppers with less than 1⁄4 grain of explosive mixture, and novelty devices that spin or move on the ground.
All other fireworks, including firecrackers, roman candles, mortars and bottle rockets are illegal to use or possess without a valid permit. The simple rule that is if a firework leaves the ground or explodes, it is illegal.
Fireworks vendors cannot issue permits for the use of fireworks in the City of Fitchburg and the City does not issue permits for individual use.
More importantly, fireworks that leave the ground or explode are also unsafe. Fireworks present a danger to those igniting them and those in the vicinity of them, as well as to surrounding homes and other property.
It’s also important to remember that just because a firework is considered legal, it’s not any safer. For example, sparklers burn at over 1200°F and account for over a quarter of all fireworks related emergency room visits.
We recognize and appreciate the desire to celebrate this holiday weekend and on Independence Day. Please celebrate safely, legally, and respectfully, keeping your neighbors and the rest of the community in mind.
Thanks for celebrating responsibly and have a safe and happy holiday weekend.
- Fitchburg Fire Rescue & Fitchburg Police Department
