Lincoln Police Remind Public of Firework Rules Ahead of Holiday

July 1, 2020, 2:20 p.m. ·

thought-catalog-D8ZEeesqLIc-unsplash.jpg
(Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash)

The Lincoln Police Department said it’s seen an almost 150% increase in fireworks-related calls over the past month compared to previous years.

LPD’s Erin Spilker said police won’t respond unless there’s a specific address or description of the residence associated with the call. She said it’s difficult to pinpoint the location of the fireworks when only a general area is given.

"By the time we kind of drive through the neighborhoods and maybe figure out where they’re coming from, they’re not going on anymore, so who do you contact [to enforce the ordinance]?" Spilker said.

Spilker said LPD is not sure what has contributed to the spike in fireworks-related calls this year.

She said anyone in violation of the city’s fireworks ordinance could face a misdemeanor charge and be fined up to $500.

Fireworks are legal on July 3 between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. and on July 4 between 8 a.m. and midnight.