Elkhart officials warn public against illegally setting off fireworks

ELKHART, Ind. – Police in Elkhart are reminding the public about the time and dates in which fireworks can be legally set off.

Anyone is allowed to set off fireworks from June 29 through July 9 between the hours of 5 p.m. and two hours after sunset.

On July 4, those hours are expanded from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.

State law stipulates that anyone can set off fireworks all year round through the hours of 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., but ordinances in different cities have certain restrictions in place.

Violation of city ordinances can result in being fined up to $100.

Police in Elkhart say that reports of fireworks complaints have increased dramatically (116 complaints this year compared to 49 by this time last year) and they are now advising the public to obey city ordinances.

“Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a lot of typical displays that are being given this year have been cancelled,” Elkhart City Police Lieutenant Travis said. “I believe the city of Elkhart’s was cancelled as well because we’re worried about the group gathering size.”

Snyder also spoke about what can happen if people are setting off fireworks illegally.

“If we get a call we’re going to go out there try to get in the area,” Lieutenant Snyder said. “Dispatch is going to try to get from the person you know which house, do you know which person. That gets a little hard sometimes trying to figure out exactly which house it came from.”

Police say that while they are patrolling they will be keeping an eye on fireworks usage.

They are advising that people refrain from illegally setting off fireworks and be mindful of their neighbors.