Nikki Bos, General Manager of the Guthrie News Leader
Just in time for summer celebrations, Oklahoma’s new Rocket’s Red Glare Act has lit a fuse under the state’s fireworks laws.
The law, which took effect May 29, legalizes bottle rockets for the first time since 1981 and allows licensed retailers to sell consumer fireworks year-round.
For many Oklahomans, the childhood dream of a backyard bottle rocket duel with a cousin is officially back on the table. Whether that’s a good idea is a discussion best left to emergency room personnel and local law enforcement.
Before you start lighting up your Screaming Mimis, Nipsy Dazers (with or without the scooter stick), Hoosker Doos or Hoosker Don’ts, it’s important to remember that state law and city ordinances are not always the same thing.
While the new law reduces restrictions in unincorporated areas of the state, municipalities still have the authority to regulate fireworks within their city limits. That means residents should not assume that because a firework is legal to purchase, it is automatically legal to use everywhere.
In Guthrie, fireworks may be discharged on private residential property outside the historic downtown district, but only with a permit. The permit costs $15 and must be obtained through City Hall. Permit holders are also required to follow the city’s approved dates and times for discharging fireworks.
Those who ignore the rules could find their evening ending with more red and blue lights than red glare. Violators may have their fireworks confiscated and destroyed, and could face a $200 fine.
The Rocket’s Red Glare Act also includes provisions allowing certain private fireworks displays in counties without burn bans when weather conditions are favorable. However, those displays require notification to your local fire department.
The bottom line? Before stocking up on bottle rockets, Roman candles and enough sparklers to recreate your own small-scale Independence Day celebration, check with your local city offices first.
A quick phone call to City Hall can save you from an unexpected visit from law enforcement — and keep your celebration focused on fireworks instead of fines.
For a full list of Guthrie’s Residential Fireworks Discharge Regulations visit GNL’s website or https://www.cityofguthrie.com/fire