Owensboro Fireworks Season is Here, OPD Asks to Use Caution

The City of Owensboro, in conjunction with the Owensboro Police Department, wants to share a friendly reminder when it comes to the use of fireworks within the city limits. Here's what's legal, illegal, and fines that may be levied.

Who doesn't love this time of the year? The backyard picnics, barbecues with family, block parties, patriotic music, and of course, fireworks! My neighborhood has already come alive and it's been fun watching the sky light up this week. But, safety should be the most important thing to consider during the upcoming days and the holiday weekend. The City of Owensboro and the Owensboro Police Department want you to have a fun and festive Fourth of July, but a safe one too.

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Fireworks Within the City of Owensboro

Fireworks are already lighting the skies all over Owensboro. They can be festive and fun, but also loud and unsafe when not handled properly. The sounds of fireworks can also distress people and pets that's why it's important to adhere to the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. when celebrating. Fireworks may be used between 10:00 a.m. and Midnight on July 3rd and July 4th, 2021 is the exception.

Additional Rules

No person may use fireworks if they are under the age of 18 years old. Residents must stay within 200 feet of any structure, vehicle, any other person, or where the use of such would place that person in violation of any other law, regulation, or ordinance.

Owensboro Police Department

When not used properly, fireworks have the ability to be very dangerous to both the user as well as others. In the past, we have seen fireworks being intentionally directed towards both persons, vehicles, and property. These have resulted in both property damage such as burned vehicles as well as injuries to the targets of these assaults.

These actions can result in serious criminal charges including:

Fireworks Use in City Limits – City Ordinance Violation (Fine)
Parental Responsibility for Minors – City Ordinance Violation (Fine)
Failure to Disperse – Class B Misdemeanor
Disorderly Conduct, 2nd Degree – Class B Misdemeanor
Disorderly Conduct, 1st Degree – Class A Misdemeanor
Wanton Endangerment, 2nd Degree – Class A Misdemeanor
Wanton Endangerment, 1st Degree – Class D Felony
Assault 1st, 2nd, 3rd Degree – Felony Offenses
Arson 1st, 2nd, 3rd Degree – Felony Offenses

Last week Chad shared some great safety tips to keep our pets safe with Tara Groves who runs OCTC's Veterinary Technology program.

Have a happy 4th of July with family and friends and thank you to the City of Owensboro and OPD for keeping the community safe. The weather is going to be beautiful so get out and enjoy the celebrations all over town!