Independence Day is just around the corner, and plenty of Hoosiers want to know when they’re allowed to set off fireworks. On normal days, State law says that the use of fireworks must be limited to between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. Local ordinances can be even more restrictive.
The 9:00-to-11:00 rule, however, doesn’t apply for the Fourth of July (or New Year’s Eve, for that matter). In Indiana, from June 29 through July 9, there are special fireworks hours protected by State law that run from 5:00 p.m. until two hours past sunset. On July 4 itself, fireworks may be set off from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.
These special fireworks hours are not subject to local ordinances. That means no matter how annoyed your neighbors get, you have the right to wake babies and scare dogs with your explosive patriotism until two hours after sunset. The police are not going to shut you down.
We all know that blowing things up is an American tradition, but there’s also something to be said for being a good neighbor. The folks next door may not have any legal recourse, but it’s still not a great idea to make them your enemies. Know the law, but use your head as well. As you celebrate this Fourth of July, be safe, have fun, and try not to start any fires. If you have any questions, call the Marc Lopez Law Firm at 317-632-3642 and remember—always plead the 5th!
