We will be celebrating Independence Day once again, a day that means different things to different people. On Maui, it means a night of unimaginable use of legal and illegal fireworks. Here are some reminders regarding fireworks regulations:
• Legal fireworks can be used between 1- 9 p.m. Violations can result in a $2,000 fine.
• Firecrackers (1 1/2 inches long) require a permit from the county that can be purchased for $25. Contact the Maui Fire Department's Fire Prevention Bureau at 876-4690.
• Legal fireworks not requiring a permit are limited by the 12 foot rule, meaning they cannot exceed 12 feet in height or in any lateral direction.
• Aerials are strictly illegal without a use permit that must meet several safety criteria, including a pyrotechnics license, and must be purchased at least 20 days in advance. Illegal usage is a Class "C" felony punishable by up to a $10,000 fine and five years in prison.
Let's all hope we have a safe and sane 4th of July during this COVID-19 year. And that Police Chief Tivoli Faaumu will have more, not fewer, officers on patrol that night.
Michael Blaz
Kihei
