Fireworks legal just in time for Fourth of July

ATLANTA - It's a day many people in the state have been looking forward to - some with dread, others with glee.  Beginning July 1, standard consumer fireworks will be legal for sale in Georgia.

 

Governor Nathan Deal signed the legalization bill into law last month, clearing the way for sales before the 4th of July holiday.

 

Deputy State Fire Marshal Chris Stephens said on WDUN's Afternoon News Wrap his office has been preparing for the law's effective date.  He said the Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner has been busy with calls and contacts regarding the law.

 

On that note, Stephens said the office has set up a website portal where interested vendors can register online.  It includes a feature to upload necessary documents and even pay the fee.  Some of those forms include citizenship documents, insurance certificates and inspection documents.

 

"Once we review those documents, and everything is in order, then at that time we can issue the license," Stephens said.

 

Despite the short turnaround for fireworks vendors, Stephens said Georgians should have no trouble finding a place to buy them next month.

 

"I feel confident that the citizens of Georgia will certainly have plenty of opportunities to purchase fireworks should they wish to," Stephens said.

 

He said most cities or counties will have licensed vendors selling them, even this first year.  Despite that statement, Stephens said he actually expected a dramatic increase in applications following this year's July 4th celebrations.

 

With the addition of more serious consumer fireworks in the state, including products that shoot into the air, Stephens said there's always a concern of more fires.  He said the level of dryness can even factor into risk with fireworks that just burn on the ground.

 

Law enforcement kicked of the summer driving season with a list of traffic safety efforts, and Stephens said Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner Ralph Hudgens will do the same with fireworks safety.  He said Hudgens plans a series of press releases with tips related to fireworks safety.  The office is relying on the media to put those tips out to the public.  He said citizens should listen up.

 

"I think that's very important, not only to protect themselves, but to also protect others and property alike," Stephens said.

 

Opponents during the debate on the law in this year's Georgia Legislative Session contended fireworks are dangerous.

 

Sen. Tyler Harper, R-Ocilla, who tacked on amendments that solved problems some lawmakers had with the bill, and Rep. Jay Roberts, also an Ocilla Republican, said Georgia lost money because of its ban.  Fireworks have been legally sold for years in all neighboring states except North Carolina.

The new law prohibits the possession of fireworks in school zones, at school functions or on school buses.

 

 

In anticipation of phone calls from citizens inquiring about the law, Gainesville Fire Division Chief Keith Smith issued a fact sheet Tuesday afternoon.

 

Permit to sell Fireworks:

Georgia's Safety Fire Commissioner will issue a state license to sell fireworks after the applicant meets specific requirements.

Where Fireworks Can Be Sold:

Local governments are allowed to regulate where fireworks can be sold through local zoning regulations.  Fireworks may be sold from a permanent consumer fireworks retail sales facility, store or temporary structure if it complies with the code requirements.

Usage of Fireworks:

Fireworks can be used between the hours of 1000 and midnight. On January 1, July 3-4, and December 31, fireworks can be used from 1000 through 0200.

Fireworks cannot be exploded within 100 yards of a gas station, or a facility that refines, processes, or blends gasoline.

For more information you may read the full bill or may contact the Gainesville Fire Department at 770-534-3612.