borough fireworks
oP - ED
Residents of Hellertown,
Now that the summer and holiday season are upon us there have been some questions regarding the Borough’s Fireworks Ordinance. The ordinance can be found on our website (www.hellertownborough.org) if you would like to review it further but I will touch on the main points.
The ordinance is number 824 and can be found in chapter 203. Ordinance 824 states that the Borough of Hellertown has adopted Act 43 of 2017 as our fireworks law. This act defines the classes of fireworks, among other things. The section to pay attention to is Section 9404. This section states one must be at least 18 years of age to possess consumer fireworks and the following 5 prohibitions are not allowed.
A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge:
1. Consumer fireworks on public or private property without the express permission of the owner.
2. Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices within, or throw consumer fireworks or sparkling devices from, a motor vehicle or building.
3. Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices into or at a motor vehicle or building or at another person.
4. Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug.
5. Consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure.
Ordinance 824 also states that consumer fireworks shall not be ignited or discharged on the streets, sidewalks or any property owned by the Borough of Hellertown, including community parks and no consumer fireworks shall be discharged after 10 pm.
Anyone violating this Ordinance shall have their fireworks confiscated and destroyed and the owner shall be responsible for the storage and destruction of the fireworks. Violators are also subject to a fine of not more than $1000.00, per violation, and may be imprisoned to the extent allowed by law for the punishment of a summary offense.
Please be safe and remember to be courteous to your neighbors and other residents of the Borough of Hellertown.
Sincerely,
Chief Robert Shupp III
Hellertown Borough Police Department