Council considers fireworks legislation

NORWALK — Norwalk City Council Tuesday night requested Norwalk Law Director Stuart O'Hara to look into options regarding buying, keeping and setting off fireworks, as the State of Ohio changes laws formerly banning their use. The Ohio General Assembly voted June 2, 2021, to change existing Ohio law regarding fireworks sales and use, that had largely been ignored for years. Previously, fireworks buyers could obtain fireworks classified as "1.4G," or "consumer fireworks," but were required to sign a form stating they would transport their fireworks outside the state and set them off there. "They amended the state law," O'Hara said. Under House Bill 172, legislators adopted the new law, which allows for the purchase, possession and use of fireworks in Ohio, but only on certain occasions, and only on private property. Specifically, the measure restricts fireworks use to the following days: The first day of January Chinese New Year's Day The fifth of May The last Monday in May, and the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding that day The 19th day of June The third, fourth and fifth days of July The first Friday, Saturday and Sunday before and after the fourth day of July The first Monday of September and the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding that day Diwali The 31st day of December O'Hara noted that the new law takes effect July 1 of this year, allowing for local governments to enact their own ordinances ahead of that date. The law provides for the adoption of a number of options, including limiting the dates and/or times fireworks can be used. Local officials may also enact a complete ban on their use, he said. Council may also simply opt to do nothing, allowing the law to take effect without any local ordinance modifying it, O'Hara further explained. O'Hara chose to make council members aware of the upcoming law, due to the timing involved. "I just brought it to council's attention, so they can act if they feel it appropriate," he said. Ohio law allows for the sale of 1.4G fireworks, designated "common fireworks," to those 18 years or older. Common fireworks are identified by the State of Ohio as those containing no more than 50 grams of powder, as opposed to "professional fireworks," which have more. Professional fireworks require training and licensure for purchase within the state.