Fireworks are losing some flare in Treasure Island

TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. (WFLA) — Holiday weekend fireworks are losing some of their flare in Treasure Island.

You can still watch the City of Treasure Island’s professional fireworks display from the beach; however, you won’t be allowed to bring your own fireworks to the beach this Fourth of July.

“One of the issues we found last year was folks were setting up mortars and Roman candles and explosive devices in real close proximity to families and beachgoers,” Treasure Island Fire Chief Trip Barrs said.

For displays that seem more dangerous every year, the city is enforcing a few ordinances to include fireworks- before someone gets hurt.

“We were fortunate last year and did not have any serious injuries on the Fourth of July,” Barrs said.

The city isn’t allowed to ban fireworks completely because of a law Go. Ron DeSantis put in place a few years ago, so they have found a way around it.

Fireworks are now considered an open flame in Treasure Island, which is prohibited on the beach.

Additionally, firework debris is now considered litter which goes against the city’s leave no trace on the beach ordinance.

“The police department will be issuing warnings and if people continue there will be a citation involved,” said Barrs.

Setting off fireworks on the beach will also go against the city’s coastal lighting standards because the light is not sea turtle-friendly.

While you can still light fireworks from your home, the city believes its professional public display on the beach is the safest celebratory option.

Their show starts at 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July. You can park in the Gulf Front parking lot and make your way to the sand for the show.

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