Scottville holds first reading of fireworks ordinance

SCOTTVILLE — The Scottville City Commission is a meeting away from having a little peace and quiet in the town during national holidays — at least as much as there can be. The commission had its first reading of the new fireworks ordinance Monday night during its regular meeting.

The city’s ordinance already bans consumer grade fireworks (see here for city ordinances) and professional grade fireworks and limitations on fireworks uses are addressed by state law. However, in 2012 the state legislature allowed for the sale and use of consumer fireworks on private property on the day of, day before and day after all 10 national holidays. After complaints from municipalities across the state, the legislature amended the law in May to state that municipalities could restrict all fireworks usage between 1 and 8 a.m. during those days. On Monday, Scottville city commissioners took a step towards that ban by adding that clause to its ordinance.

The second reading, and expected passage of the ordinance, is scheduled for Aug. 19.