Make sure you know the applicable laws this Independence Day before you set off your backyard extravaganza and annoy wow your neighbors.

Fireworks in Backyard
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This 4th of July, make sure you are following all of the laws in regard to fireworks to not only keep you out of trouble but also to keep you, your friends and your family safe. According to a press release from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security:

“Hoosiers using fireworks this summer need to be both safe and legal when doing so,"  said State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson. “Responsible use of fireworks will help contribute to safe and enjoyable celebration.”

So what does the law say? Well to start, retailers can only sell fireworks to you if you're 18 or older. Technically, in the state of Indiana, you can set off your fireworks anytime throughout the year between 9 am to 11 pm but you should check city ordinances because those may override the state's rule. In fact, in the City of Evansville - you're not allowed to use fireworks except as outlined below. During state holidays, the same rule of thumb applies, although the end time is midnight - but again, city ordinance takes precedence. Now, if you can't wait to get out your bottle rockets and your big boomers, there are some days & times that the city ordinances do not override state law:

June 29-July 3: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset;

July 4: from 10 a.m. to midnight.

July 5-July 9: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset; and

December 31: from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.

During these days/times you are free to use your consumer fireworks as local ordinances cannot prohibit you from doing so. BUT...

If you're wondering where you can set off your fireworks, the answer is pretty simple - your own property or the property of someone you know who has given you permission to set off fireworks on their property. It's worth noting here, that if you cause damage to someone else's property or cause injury to another person, regardless of if you are on your own property or not, you can be held liable.

If you'd like to know more about fireworks safety in the state of Indiana, visit www.GetPrepared.in.gov. For more details about the laws within the city of Evansville visit Evansville.IN.gov.

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