With the Fourth of July less than three weeks away, there has already been reports of illegal fireworks being sent off all over the county and at all hours of the night.
Second District Councilman Izzy Patoka said he has received phone calls and complaints from all over his northwest Baltimore County District.
Over the last week or so, I have noticed and received reports of folks setting off illegal fireworks in several neighborhoods throughout the 2nd District,” Patoka said in a Facebook post. “This post is intended to raise public awareness. Please do not set off fireworks in your neighborhood or community as people are attempting to sleep or getting their kids or pets to sleep.”
Fifth District Councilman David Marks, who resides in the Perry Hall area, says he has also heard the illegal fireworks at night.
“Last night was Sunday, June 14th – not the Fourth of July,” Marks wrote on social media.
“This post might not make any difference to some, but please do not set off fireworks in your neighborhoods when people are attempting to sleep, or getting their babies to sleep. Show some courtesy.”
Patoka also points out that backyard fireworks are illegal and shared a link to the Baltimore County website about fireworks.
“You cannot have a private display of fireworks at your home without a permit. All fireworks displays, regardless of location, require the proper permits and insurance. Call Baltimore County’s Fire Marshal’s Office at 410-887-4880 for information,” said a statement on the Baltimore County website.
Violators who possess or discharge illegal fireworks are subject to a misdemeanor fine of up to $250. The sale of fireworks without a permit is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a $1,000 fine.
