Sand Springs Ready To Light The Fuse

A burning question in Sand Springs has been answered. The Sand Springs City Council, Monday night, approved a plan that lights the fuse on fireworks.

Sand Springs city officials say residents with a permit will legally be able to discharge fireworks at their homes July 3rd and 4th between the hours of noon and 11 p.m. The permits cost $20 and must be posted in a visible location for police to see.

The permit process will end a ban on private fireworks usage in the city limits that has lasted more than 30 years.

"From a safety standpoint, the best way to enjoy fireworks is to go see a public display presented by professionals. However, we also recognize that many people like to enjoy their own private displays. Through the permit process, we are letting them do that lawfully provided it is done in a responsible manner," said Fire Chief Mark Joslin.

Only persons age 18 or older can receive a fireworks permit. Officials say fireworks can only be discharged on non-combustible surfaces like a driveway or a patio at least 25 feet from a nearly building.

Sand Springs officials say they can cancel a permit if the property location harms the public's health, safety or welfare.

"We may not allow permits for residences that are adjacent to nursing homes or other places where the noise from fireworks would be disruptive," Joslin said. "Likewise, we would not issue a permit if the location presented a serious fire hazard like a home immediately adjacent to a gas station."

Sales of fireworks are still banned in the Sand Springs city limits.

The ordinance also allows the city manager to set other dates for issuance of fireworks permits if occasions warrant.

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