July 03 2022

Fireworks: Important Safety Info


It’s that time again—fireworks season is here. We want to make sure all residents are staying safe, responsible, and courteous during this time. 

What are the enforcement hours?

Fireworks are permitted only on the following days: 

  • December 31 until 1 a.m. on January 1
  • The Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Memorial Day until 11:45 p.m. on each of those days
  • June 29 to July 4 until 11:45 p.m. on each of those days
  • July 5, if that date is a Friday or Saturday until 11:45 p.m.
  • The Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Labor Day until 11:45 p.m. on each of those days.

Can fireworks be used on dates not mentioned above?

No. Fireworks, firecrackers, and noisemakers are only allowed during the dates and times mentioned above. Use of these items outside the legally-allowed timeframes is considered a violation of the ordinance and could result in a civil infraction.

What happens if the fireworks ordinance is violated?

A violation of the ordinance—using fireworks outside of the legally-allowed timeframes listed above—will be investigated by the Ferndale Police Department and can result in a civil infraction, punishable by a fine of $1,000 for each violation.

What should I do if fireworks are being used outside of the legally-allowed timeframes on my street or in my neighborhood?

Call the Ferndale Police Department non-emergency line at 248-541-3650. They are here to help enforce the Fireworks Ordinance and will follow up on any complaints received.

As much fun as fireworks can be, they also can be dangerous. Fire Chief Teresa Robinson has compiled a list of resources designed to keep you and others safe while handling fireworks.

These are some tips provided by the Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Fire Services:

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
  • Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
  • Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees--hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
  • Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishaps.
  • Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
  • Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
  • After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
  • Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

Additional Safety Resources:

National Fire Protection Association Fireworks Safety Infographic
National Fire Protection Association Firework Injury Graph
National Fire Protection Association Firework Injury Data
National Fire Protection Association Firework Alternatives

Please be safe, responsible, considerate, and look out for yourselves and others! Let us know if you have any questions or concerns.