June 28, 2012

Maine police see confusion on new fireworks law

The Associated Press

RUMFORD — Maine's new fireworks law appears to be causing some confusion as 4th of July approaches.

click image to enlarge

An M-150 firework is lit in Freeport recently. This July 4 will be the first in 63 years in which fireworks are legal in the state, thanks to a law that took effect in January.

AP

The Legislature voted last year to lift the state's 70-year ban on the sale and use of many types of consumer fireworks.

Some local police departments are reporting a steady increase in noise complaints associated with fireworks and expect those complaints to grow as the holiday approaches.

Rumford Police Capt. Dan Garbarini tells the Maine Sun Journal that many people may not fully understand the new law, which limits fireworks to private property and continues to outlaw more powerful devices such as bottle rockets.

Garbarini says people who want to use fireworks should first familiarize themselves with the new law.

Several cities, including Portland and Augusta, passed local ordinances against fireworks after the state law was approved.

Were you interviewed for this story? If so, please fill out our accuracy form

Send question/comment to the editors




Further Discussion

Here at PressHerald.com we value our readers and are committed to growing our community by encouraging you to add to the discussion. To ensure conscientious dialogue we have implemented a strict no-bullying policy. To participate, you must follow our Terms of Use.

Questions about the article? Add them below and we’ll try to answer them or do a follow-up post as soon as we can. Technical problems? Email them to us with an exact description of the problem. Make sure to include:
  • Type of computer or mobile device your are using
  • Exact operating system and browser you are viewing the site on (TIP: You can easily determine your operating system here.)


Most…