Lighting fireworks in Parma? Read this first

PARMA , Ohio (WJW) — Consumer-grade fireworks are legal for Ohioans to possess and discharge under state law, but not under Parma ordinance.

Police reminded residents in a Wednesday Facebook post , saying they’ve ordered “all hands on deck” for the July 4 holiday, with more personnel coming in to take fireworks complaints.

“Due to the high volume of fireworks calls we traditionally have on Independence Day, officers will be citing and confiscating fireworks for evidence,” reads the post. “We will also have drone operators working and on hand with drones to try and pin point offenders and gather evidence of offenses.”

In Ohio, fireworks were illegal to use statewide for anyone, except in permitted fireworks displays — until 2022. Under Ohio’s permissive fireworks law that took effect that year, less-powerful consumer-grade fireworks — known in the U.S. as 1.4G fireworks — can be set off on private property by adults.

But they’re only allowed on certain holidays, including July 4, as well as July 3 and 5, and the first Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays before and after July 4. State law allows local governments to restrict those dates or ban fireworks entirely and many, like Parma, have done just that .

“We are expecting an increase in fireworks calls because Independence Day precedes the weekend this year,” reads the post. “As such, we will have additional personnel working in the evenings to help mitigate fireworks complaints.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.