June 20, 2016, Canton, MI – With Independence Day fast approaching, the Canton Public Safety Department reminds residents of the Township’s ordinance regarding the discharge of novelties, low-impact fireworks and consumer fireworks that states:
(a) Except in the case of a permit issued by the township, consumer fireworks shall not be ignited, discharged, or used by any person at any time, except on the day preceding, the day of, or the day after a national holiday. On these holiday dates only, the ignition, discharge or use of consumer fireworks is permitted between the hours of 8 a.m. and midnight; and always only in accordance with state and local law.
(b) When permitted, consumer fireworks shall not be ignited or discharged on public property, school property, church property, or property of another person without that organization’s or person’s written permission to use consumer fireworks on the premises.
(c) No fireworks shall be ignited or discharged within 70 feet of any building, or on any public street.
(d) Minors shall be prohibited from possessing, using, igniting or discharging consumer fireworks.
(e) No person shall use low-impact or consumer fireworks while under the influence of alcoholic liquor or a controlled substance or both.
Township Ordinance also prohibits the sale, storage or use of sky lanterns in Canton.
During the upcoming holiday weekend, the police department will have additional officers on duty to respond to all fireworks complaints reported.
“Last year the department received an abundance of fireworks complaints; this year, by assigning officers to the special enforcement, it will allow shift officers to remain on task with their regular patrol duties,” says Deputy Chief Scott Hilden.
“In the best interest of public safety and resident wellness, police officers will be using a zero tolerance approach to observed fireworks violations,” Hilden adds.
Unlawful discharging of fireworks can be reported to the Public Safety Department’s non-emergency line at 734/394-5400, at the auto attendant dial 2, then 1. Emergency situations should be called in to 911.
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