07/04/2020
The last few months of 2020 have been stressful for many. With many people social distancing in small groups, and with the cancellation of many public shows due to the coronavirus crisis, the State Fire Marshal and Minnesota firefighters are expecting an uptick in fireworks injuries and property damage. Last year in Minnesota, 59 people ended up in hospitals with fireworks injuries, many of them children. More injuries are likely treated at home and unaccounted for. In addition to injuries, fireworks caused $190,351 in damage to homes and other structures in Minnesota last June and July.
Flying or exploding fireworks are illegal in Minnesota. Minn. Stat. 624.21 makes it unlawful for any person to offer for sale, possess, use or explode any flying or exploding fireworks. If you chose to violate this law and your violation involves explosive fireworks in an amount of 35 pounds gross container weight or more, you face a gross misdemeanor charge. If convicted, you could face up to a year in jail and a $3000 fine. If the violation involves an amount less that 35 pounds gross container weight, you face a misdemeanor charge. If convicted, you could face up to 90 days in jail and a $1000 fine.
Examples of illegal fireworks in Minnesota include, firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles, roman candles, and mortars and shells. Legal fireworks include sparklers, ground based sparkling devices that are non-explosive and non-aeriel, snakes, party poppers, cones and tubes that emit sparks, fountains, ground spinners and wheels.
Wishing you a safe and happy Fourth of July! If during or following your celebrations, you find yourself facing criminal charges, don't hesitate to call the experienced attorneys at Gierman Law, LLC. For more information you can find us on the web at GIERMANLAW.COM, or you can reach one of our attorneys at 320-259-4004.
