by Don’t Let Fireworks Ruin Your Memorial Day — Grand Rapids Reminds Residents of $1,000 Fine
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the City of Grand Rapids is reminding residents to celebrate safely — and legally — when it comes to fireworks. Violating the city’s ordinance could cost you a hefty $1,000 fine.
When Are Fireworks Allowed?
To stay on the right side of the law, only light fireworks during these designated hours:
- Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25: 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
- No fireworks are allowed on Memorial Day itself — Monday, May 26.
These limited hours are part of a city ordinance aimed at keeping people safe during holidays and reducing fire hazards.
Other Approved Dates for Fireworks in Grand Rapids:
- June 19 (Juneteenth): 11 a.m. – 11:45 p.m.
- June 29 to July 4: 11 a.m. – 11:45 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday before Labor Day (Sept. 1): 11 a.m. – 11:45 p.m.
- New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31): 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. on Jan. 1
Firework Safety is Serious Business
According to Grand Rapids Fire Marshal Bill Smith, fireworks injure hundreds of people each year. Since January 2021, the Grand Rapids Fire Department has responded to over 200 fire incidents and five emergency calls directly tied to fireworks.
“Our goal is to reduce risk in our community. Educating our citizens about fireworks safety is one of our top priorities,” Smith said.
Top Firework Safety Tips from GRFD
To ensure a fun and accident-free holiday, follow these expert safety guidelines:
- Read all instructions and warnings before using fireworks.
- Keep water nearby, like a bucket or garden hose, in case of fire or malfunction.
- Never let children handle fireworks. Even sparklers can burn at temperatures hot enough to ignite clothing.
- Avoid aiming fireworks at people, animals, or property.
- Only light fireworks on a flat, non-flammable surface, away from homes, dry leaves, and other fire hazards.
- Never hold a firework in your hand while lighting it.
- Don’t relight duds. Wait, soak them in water, then throw them away.
- Never light fireworks inside containers, especially glass or metal.
- Keep unused fireworks far away from the lighting area.
- Stay sober — never use fireworks under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Know where not to light fireworks: It’s illegal to use them on public sidewalks, streets, parks, churches, schools, or other public property.
Before heading to bed, double-check your yard and home to ensure nothing is smoldering. And make sure your smoke alarms are working.
