Should Michigan change its fireworks law?

(WXYZ) — The Fourth of July is just around the corner and the fireworks and festivities are already underway.

According to Michigan law, fireworks may be set off for private purposes from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. from June 29 through July 4.

Related: When can you use fireworks in Michigan? What the law says

Residents are only allowed to launch fireworks for private use from their private property; launching them from the street or sidewalk is strictly prohibited.

I wanted to find out if people think the state’s ordinance should be changed.

“I think it depends a lot on where you are. If you’re in a neighborhood, definitely 11:45 p.m., before midnight.” Said Bryan Rohel.

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“Honestly, I think you can set off fireworks as much as you want until the day is over. Set them off,” Tyler told me.

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“Well, then there are the dogs. I feel sorry for them. 11 p.m. One hour for the fireworks. That’s good.” Said Marti Carey of Warren.

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If you’re caught setting off fireworks outside of these times, you could be fined $500, but you should also check your local city ordinances.

“We will go to this island here and get the mussels. These are the big ones,” said Röhl.

Riley Batarseh of Phantom Fireworks in Sterling Heights says fireworks are selling like hotcakes, but people are constantly reminded of the laws.

“So we have a flyer and every customer that comes in gets one of these. It has Phantom Fireworks’ fireworks safety policy and also Sterling Heights’ city ordinance on what days and what times you can set them off. Because contrary to popular belief, you can’t just set them off whenever you want.” Said Batarseh.

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Tyler said he bought about $2,000 worth of fireworks and was on his way to Northern Michigan to celebrate the holiday.

“I usually buy in bulk and do so on Labor Day, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July.” he said.

I asked him if he had heard anyone setting off fireworks in his neighborhood. He said no.

For Marti, who was cleaning her grill for the holiday, it’s a different story.

“Have you heard any fireworks lately?” I asked.

“Yes, it seems as if fireworks will be set off on Friday night,” said Marti. “Too much time too often. I would like to see fireworks on the 4th of July.”

“I think it will start this week. You’ll see people testing them. They’ll come into the store, buy some stuff and they’ll want to see it.” said Röhl.

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