Communities across the state have already seen tents and trailers sporting bright banners and signs pop up and open for firework sales. Many communities allowed for sales starting late last week, with ordinances wrapping up eligible sale times sometime on the 4th of July.
Many communities have ordinances or laws similar to Broken Bow’s, which were released by the police department as sales got underway last week. (Check with your local authorities for specific guidance as dates, times, and parameters may be different)
Fireworks can be sold within Broken Bow city limits until July 4th, each day from 9 AM until 11 PM. As far as discharge of those fireworks in city limits, fireworks can only be discharged from Thursday the 25th of June through Friday July 3rd from 9 AM until 11 PM. On the 4th of July, discharge can last until midnight.
Last week’s release stated that warnings will generally be given the first time fireworks are discharged outside of appropriate hours. A citation may be issued for disturbing the peace the second time at the discretion of the officer.
Other items unlawful according to the police:
1. Using, discharging or exploding fireworks within any building or in the vicinity of any person or property in a manner that exposes such person or property to injury or damage
2. Throwing fireworks from or into a motor vehicle, onto any street, highway, or sidewalk, at or near any person, into any building or into or at any group of people.
Illegal fireworks, such as M-80’s, cherry bombs, flying lanterns, wire sparklers, and other fireworks are prohibited for discharge through Nebraska law.
Nighttime parachutes and bottle rockets are allowed in Nebraska now, and firecrackers have to have less than 50 milligrams of explosive composition.
Broken Bow Police Chief Chris Anderson encouraged caution when lighting fireworks and asked for fireworks to be cleaned up and disposed of properly when done. Those with questions can contact Chief Anderson at 308-872-6424.
