Do You Know When It’s Legal to Light Fireworks in Michigan?

Planning on fireworks over the Fourth of July? Make sure you know the rules, and make sure you know when it's legal to light up the sky here in Michigan.

And yes, it's a good idea to know when it's legal for your neighbors to set 'em off, so you're not wasting a phone call to your local police agency.

When is it Legal to Light Fireworks in Michigan?

As of December 2019, Michigan law says you have 11 or 12 days each year to light fireworks. Because of how the Fourth of July holiday falls, you actually have 12 days in 2024 and 2025.

Here is when it's permissible to set off fireworks:

• December 31 until 1:00 a.m. on January 1
• The Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day, until 11:45 p.m.
• June 29 to July 4, until 11:45 p.m.
• July 5, if it falls on a Friday or Saturday, until 11:45 p.m.
• The Saturday and Sunday before Labor Day, until 11:45 p.m.

Michigan law states that local city and township ordinances cannot restrict residents from setting off fireworks during these times.

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The idea of reducing the number of days fireworks are permitted has been tossed around in Lansing, but so far no changes have come to fruition.

What Should You Do if Your Neighbors are Setting Off Fireworks Illegally?

Attorney Bryan Waldman advises that it's always best to try to dispute disagreements in person before getting local law enforcement involved. If you encounter a neighbor who is uncooperative, it's best to call your local police department's non-emergency number rather than 911. Police departments can issue citations for up to $500 for anyone who violates Michigan's firework ordinance.

Above all, make sure you exercise caution if you're setting off fireworks this year. And please keep the kiddos safe too.