With the July 4th holiday rapidly approaching, the West Virginia State Police would like to remind the public that West Virginia code specifically lists rules pertaining to the use of fireworks.
According to West Virginia Code 29-3E-11:
- (a) A person may not intentionally ignite, discharge or use consumer fireworks on public or private property without the express permission of the owner to do so.
- (b) A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge any consumer fireworks or sparkling devices within or throw the same from a motor vehicle or building.
- (c) A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge any consumer fireworks or sparkling devices into or at a motor vehicle or building, or at any person or group of people.
- (d) A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge any consumer fireworks or sparkling device while the person:
- (1) Is under the influence of alcohol;
- (2) Is under the influence of any controlled substance;
- (3) Is under the influence of any other drug; or
- (4) Is under the combined influence of alcohol and any controlled substance or any other drug.
- (e) A person who is less than eighteen years of age may not purchase, nor offer for sale, consumer fireworks.
- (f) The provisions of this section shall be effective June 1, 2016.
Within Buckhannon city limits, fireworks are only permitted between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4 itself and between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. on the Saturdays preceding and following Independence Day. Anyone who violates the city ordinance can be charged with a misdemeanor and fined, and police may seize your fireworks, so please be mindful of your neighbors!
Have a happy and safe 4th of July!
