Got fireworks? Know these rules

If you are shooting fireworks off inside the city limits of Newport, you should be aware of some basic rules contained within the city’s fireworks ordinance. The city is asking residents to please abide by these restrictions.

1) It shall be unlawful to use or explode any fireworks within the corporate limits of the City of Newport except from July 3-5 on which the time shall be no later than 11 p.m.

2) It shall be unlawful to explode or ignite fireworks on or onto another person’s property unless permission is obtained from the owner or occupant of said property.

3) It shall be unlawful to explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, hospital, funeral home, public or private school, or within 200 feet of where fireworks are stored, sold or offered for sale.

4) It shall be unlawful to ignite or discharge fireworks from, or within, a motor vehicle.

5) It shall be unlawful for any person to place or throw any ignited article of fireworks into or at a motor vehicle, or at or near any person or group of persons.

The U.S. Product Safety Commission reports that in 2023 there were 9,700 injuries reported due to fireworks and eight deaths.