Beware of Fireworks Laws This Holiday

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- As Oklahomans prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday weekend, it's important to remember the fireworks law in the Oklahoma City metro area.

It is illegal to possess, sale or set off fireworks within city limits.

There are several cities that do allow fireworks. Those cities include Mustang, Okarche and Choctaw.

"A lot of families stay in town to celebrate the Fourth of July in our city because we allow fireworks," said Mike Rutledge, City Manager of Mustang. "It looks like a war zone sometimes with all the smoke in the air during the holiday."

Those who are caught selling or using fireworks inside the Oklahoma City, city limits could end up paying a fine of up to $167. In Edmond the fine could be up to $240.

Oklahoma City's Fire Battalion Chief Tim Adams said nearly 50,000 fires are fireworks related across the country every year and making them illegal is a proactive step in prevention.

"We've been a no fireworks community for the last 10 years," Adams said. "No fireworks are legal and we don't recommend the use of them. We highly recommend that folks attend a professional fireworks show. The injury aspect is our largest part. Don't want the injuries, deaths or destructions that come with the fire."

It used to be illegal to just to transports fireworks in a vehicle within Oklahoma City limits. However, that law was repealed a couple of years ago.