This past session, the Georgia General Assembly passed House Bill 727, which impacts fireworks legislation approved by the state in 2015. The new legislation changes the allowed hours of usage on New Year’s Eve and the 4th of July from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., allowing for 9:01 p.m. until 12:00 midnight to be defined by local ordinances.

In accordance with state law, fireworks are no longer permitted between the hours of 12:00 midnight and 2:00 a.m. Currently, there have been no updates to Lowndes County’s Noise Ordinance. This being the case, fireworks are allowed in the unincorporated area from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight on July 4.

Since the legalization of rockets in Georgia, complaints regarding noise, property damage, and lost pets have risen significantly. Lowndes County would like to remind citizens to be good neighbors. Debris from fireworks may not litter surrounding properties, citizens should be mindful of local veterans that might be sensitive to noise, and pet owners should bring their pets inside during periods of ignition.

The law requires those selling, purchasing, and igniting fireworks to be at least 18 years of age. Fireworks may not be used near or on public roads, streets, highways, or bridges, to include neighborhood streets. Usage by any person under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is prohibited. Further, fireworks may not be ignited within any park, historic site or recreational area owned by a government authority without issuance of a special use permit.

Lowndes County Fire Rescue would like to encourage citizens to attend local public shows in lieu of igniting fireworks on private property. In the event fireworks are enjoyed at home, please adhere to the following safety standards set forth by the National Council on Fireworks Safety:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.

• A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.

• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.

• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.

• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.

• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.

• Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.

• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.

• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.