A new state law, which took effect April 29, 2016, restricts the lawful use of fireworks to the hours between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. most days of the year. Limited exceptions are: July 3rd / 4th and December 31st hours are extended to midnight. January 1st hours are extended until 1a.m. Citizens may use fireworks only on property where the citizen is lawfully present and lawfully permitted to use the fireworks. If the use of fireworks produces an unsafe environment, law enforcement officials will intervene.
Fireworks use is not permitted:
• On or within the right of way of any public road, street, highway or railroad.
• Within any park, historic site, recreational area or other property which is owned by, or operated by, for, or under the custody and control of a governing authority of a county, municipality or the State of Georgia.
• Obviously, fireworks should not be used while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that it creates an unsafe environment.
Other provisions restrict the use of fireworks near any public use air facility, landing area for helicopters, near any hospital, nursing home or other health care facility, within 100 yards of any jail or prison, electric plant, public or private electric substation, water treatment plant, or waste water treatment plant. For obvious safety reasons, fireworks are prohibited near facilities engaged in the production, refining, processing or blending of any flammable or combustible liquids or gases and any facility engaged in the retail sale of gasoline or other flammable/combustible liquids or gases.
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