fireworks ordinance

Village of south pekin ordinances

Fire Prevention and Protection

section - 4-2-1 : Fireworks

4-2-1: FIREWORKS

A. Definitions:

For the purpose of this section, “fireworks” means any explosive composition or substance or combination of substances prepared for the purpose of producing an audible or visible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation. It shall include blank cartridges, toy cannons in which explosives are used, the type of balloons which require fire underneath to propel the same, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, bones or other fireworks of similar construction or any other tablets and devices containing any explosive substance, compound or mixture; provided, however, that the term “fireworks” shall not include toy pistols, toy guns or other devices in which paper caps contain twenty five one-hundredths (0.25) grains or less explosive compound and that they are so constructed that the hand cannot come in contact with the cap when in place for the explosion. (1970 Code 5-6-1)

B. Sale, Use or Storage, Permit Required:

  1. No person shall sell, offer for sale, expose for sale, loan, give away , store or have in possession with intent to sell, or to use, discharge or cause to be discharged, fired or otherwise set in action within the village any “fireworks” as above defined; provided, however, that public exhibition of fireworks and pyrotechnics may be given if a permit therefor be granted by the village clerk with the approval of the board of trustees. Proof of insurance is required from the applicant for such a permit. Such public exhibition for which a permit has been duly acquired shall be subject to the supervision of the fire chief or of some person designated by him. (1970 Code 5-6-2; amd. 1995 Code)

  2. It shall be unlawful for any person to buy, sell, use, ignite or explode fireworks of any kind within the village; proved, however, that a permit may be secured from the village clerk allowing display and exhibitions to be held on holidays or other special occasions when adequate precautions are taken and facilities provided to prevent injury to person or property. (1970 Code 6-2-4-6)

C. Seizure Authorized:

The fire chief, with approval of the board of trustees, shall seize, take, remove or cause to be removed, at the expense of the owner, all stocks of fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored or held in violation of this section. (1970 Code 5-6-3)

D. Exceptions:

  • The use of fireworks by railroads or other transportation agencies for signal or illumination purposes; provided, however, that such used articles will be disposed of by burying the same in the ground or immersing the same in water; or
  • The use of blank cartridges for signal or ceremonial purposes in athletics or sports contests; or
  • Use by the armed forces of the United States or the State of Illinois (1970 Code 5-6-4)

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