Michigan Fireworks Laws Vs. Noise Ordinances Laws You Need to Know

Michigan Fireworks Laws Versus Noise Ordinances Laws You Need to Know

Fireworks are the classic way to celebrate the Fourth of July. If you have grown up in Michigan, it is hard to imagine this day of independence without sparklers, snaps, snakes, and poppers. However, are you used to hearing aerials, roman candles, and missile-type rockets?

Loosened Fireworks Laws

In 2011, Michigan lawmakers loosened Michigan firework laws by allowing the sale of most consumer-grade fireworks approved by the federal government. What had to be purchased in states like Indiana and Ohio can now be bought right in Michigan. Before the law, Michigan had allowed for low-impact fireworks like sparklers and poppers, but now high-powered and aerial fireworks can be bought.

While for the State of Michigan, this is generated a huge increase in revenue for the state, it has also caused many residents to become angry and frustrated. One Michigan resident stated, “I now have to spend my independence day feeling like I am in a war zone.” Many residents are not happy and want the laws to be changed.

Fireworks and Noise Ordinances

In the meantime, firework users need to be aware of the laws not just for fireworks, but for noise ordinance as well. Michigan resident, Karl Andrezejewki, thought he was following the fireworks laws. Unfortunately, he ended up breaking a noise ordinance law and was ticketed with a misdemeanor charge.

Andrezejewski was cited with a noise violation for setting off legal fireworks in front of his home near West Main in Kalamazoo Township the day after Memorial Day. He fired ten rockets at about 10:00 pm. He was under the impression that he was following the law regarding fireworks and he was. It was the noise that came from the rockets that broke the noise ordinance laws of this town.

Andrzejewski stated, “My intention was not to break the law or upset people.”

Local noise ordinances say that the noise must be kept below 55 decibels after 10:00 pm in more densely-populated neighborhoods.

This case clearly spotlighted the conflict between Michigan fireworks law and local noise ordinances.  What happens when one law that allows the use of fireworks comes directly opposed to another law like noise ordinances?

Confusion Over Firework Laws and Noise Ordinance Laws

There is a lot of confusion regarding Michigan law in relation to fireworks. Michigan did pass a law in 2013 called “The Common Sense Law.” It still allows for the use and purchase of high-powered fireworks.

Before you go spending tons of money on your favorite fireworks, make sure to check with your local township on not just firework laws, but if there are local noise ordinance laws. While enjoying these fireworks might be legal, many people are not happy with the law and will not hesitate to call a local noise ordinance on you.

This heated issue continues to be a topic of debate.

Regardless, you don’t want to be spending your holiday dealing with the police instead of celebrating this great holiday.

Seek Legal Advice

If you do find yourself in a legal situation regarding fireworks and noise ordinances, contact a defense attorney right away. This is not an area that you want to have to have a misdemeanor on your record. We are here to help answer any questions you might have.  Call today.

248-348-7400 or 586-530-1000

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4 comments on “Michigan Fireworks Laws Vs. Noise Ordinances Laws You Need to Know
  1. Raymond V. Gutierrez says:

    People were letting off fireworks after 1:00am on JUly 4th! There must be a noise ordinance in Holland township, and if there is it is not being enforced.

  2. James Sharrar says:

    I was told my my Sherriff department, here in Sheridan township MI. The fire works can go on all night if they want to because there is no local ordinance regarding fire works and that if I try to stop it personally , I could be the one going to jail. Thanks a lot state of Michigan, these fools in my neighbor hood, go non stop with fireworks shows now at night , I and my wife can’t get any sleep. How many times does one have to endure the identical ,bang , pop, whistle, boom. Something really has to be done about when and how many fireworks can be set off , especially at night.