Where are fireworks allowed?
Matthew Weaver/Columbia Basin HeraldMoses Lake High School senior Iesha Ford rings up a purchase for Christian Auger as she works the fireworks booth Tuesday afternoon at the intersection of Grape Drive and Highway 17. The Grant County Economic Cultural Exchange is selling fireworks to raise money to send 10 students to Korea July 16.
Cities follow different guidelines for fireworks
COLUMBIA BASIN - Before lighting off that bottle rocket or firecracker this Fourth of July, Columbia Basin residents need to know the rules for their area.
Each city follows a different set of guidelines regarding the use of fireworks.
Adams County
"Adams County at this time does not have a ban on fireworks," said Adams County Fire District No. 5 Chief Clyde Fought. Fireworks can be discharged between the hours of 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. through July 6.
Grant County
In the county, fireworks are allowed, according to Grant County Fire District No. 5 Secretary Kelly Wallace.
"We just follow state guidelines as far as hours and dates and times," Wallace said.
According to state law, fireworks can be discharged from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. through July 3, from 9 a.m. to midnight July 4, and 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. July 5.
Ephrata
In Ephrata city limits, fireworks can be lit from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. through July 4 and aerial fireworks are not allowed.
"Anything that goes up into the sky, they cannot have," said Ephrata Fire Department Administrative Assistant Misty Fairchild.
George
In George, no fireworks are allowed on city property, including streets. But fireworks can be lit at home on private property, said city Clerk Treasurer Cherie Escure.
Mattawa
In Mattawa, fireworks can be lit until noon July 6. No fireworks can be discharged after 11 p.m. and before 9 a.m. On the Fourth of July, fireworks can be lit from 9 a.m. to midnight.
Moses Lake
Moses Lake does not allow fireworks within city limits.
"Officers will take enforcement action against those persons who are unlawfully discharging fireworks," the Moses Lake Police Department advised. "The fine for discharging fireworks within the city limits is $410. Additionally, if fireworks are discharged and cause bodily injury and or property damage, the offenders may be charged with either reckless endangerment or arson, both of which are serious crimes."
Othello
Othello also does not allow fireworks within city limits.
Quincy
Quincy allows fireworks until noon July 6. No fireworks can be discharged between 11 p.m. and 9 a.m.
Soap Lake
In Soap Lake, fireworks can be lit beginning July 4, until 1 a.m. July 5. No exploding devices or rockets are allowed.
Warden
Warden allows fireworks to be discharged. No other information was available by the Columbia Basin Herald's deadline.