Fireworks season shortened, fines increased

Whitefish took steps last week to crack down on nuisance fireworks.

City Council voted Feb. 18 to shorten the city’s fireworks season by one day, while also raising the minimum fine for violation of the fireworks ordinance to $300.

Fireworks are now allowed only on July 3 and July 4 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

According to Whitefish Police Chief Bill Dial, fireworks complaints have increased significantly in recent years.

“Despite our increased efforts to inform the public of the ordinance restrictions, a number of individuals choose to ignore the ordinance resulting in terrified pets, citizens losing sleep, increased vandalism and fire danger,” he said.

The fireworks law carries a maximum fine of $500, but in past cases violators have gotten away with paying as little as $50.

“Increasing the fine to $300 for the first offense and $500 for a second and subsequent offense will provide an enforcement and prosecution tool to reduce the number of offenses and ensure for a more tranquil setting during the Fourth of July,” Dial said.

Black Widow Fireworks owner Tom Garretson told council the amendments might be misguided and difficult to enforce.

“In Missoula they’re illegal, but [police] get 200 calls on the Fourth,” he said. “People still do things.”

He said neighborhood fireworks celebrations are a big part of Whitefish’s character.

“Finding the right balance that works for the city and the personality of the community is the big issue,” he said.

Councilor Frank Sweeney said the ordinance amendment will simply give police teeth in enforcement.

“This shouldn’t be read as the city trying to get over protective or over restrictive, or trying to prevent anyone from having any fun,” he said.