There’s good news for residents of Scottsdale who want to add a little more “pop” to their holiday celebrations. The Arizona Legislature has adopted House Bill 2008, which allows for the sale, purchase, and use of fireworks.
For those who are excited about “lighting the candle,” there are still some regulations pertaining to when and where fireworks may be used.
The Scottsdale Rules
Anyone who wishes to purchase or use fireworks must be 16 years of age. Retail stores and sites that wish to sell fireworks are required to post a visible sign stating this regulation.
Fireworks must only be available for sale from May 20 to July 6; as well as from December 10 to January 3. Fireworks must only be used from June 24 through July 6; and December 24 through January 3. So while fireworks may be sold earlier than the regulated “for use” dates, people lighting them must adhere to the dates specified. Those who violate the specified dates for sale and use may be punished with a minimum fine of $250.
Fireworks that have been found permissible for sale may be used on the dates specified, even on public property. That public property, however, excludes the use of fireworks on the property of city buildings, city parking lots, city parks, public schools, and city streets. It also excludes the use of fireworks on all McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Pinnacle Peak Park properties, where fireworks are still prohibited. Those who use fireworks on the Preserve will be charged with a civil offense that incurs a minimum fine of $1,000. When a person is in violation of the Preserve restriction for a second time, the fine will be increased to $2,000, with subsequent violations garnering even bigger fines.
Individuals will still be responsible for using the fireworks in a safe and reasonable manner. When they fail to do so and fire loss expenses or emergency responses are incurred, the person who set off the firework will be responsible for any and all expenses.
In addition to these regulations, anyone who wishes to use fireworks for commercial or professional purposes must obtain a permit from the Scottsdale Fire Chief or his designee from the Fire & Life Safety Division.
In order to keep everyone as safe as possible, fireworks should only be used when they are set on the ground and in a controlled setting. Because Scottsdale is prone to having very dry areas, especially during the Fourth of July holiday, users should make sure they are not in a dry area when using fireworks.
Those who wish to set off fireworks should also always read and fully understand the safety instructions and guidelines on the fireworks packaging.
Fireworks Injury
People can easily be injured when fireworks are not used properly. If you believe someone has been negligent or careless when using fireworks, or has broken one of the Scottsdale laws pertaining to their use, speak to someone who can help you file a personal injury claim. At Breyer Law Offices, P.C., we want to help everyone stay safe, and our injury lawyers can help represent you if that does not happen. Call us today.