Fireworks Reminder To Minot Residents

June 19, 2018:  With Independence Day just two weeks away, The Minot Police Department would like to remind area residents and visitors on the restrictions placed on fireworks in the city. Minot Code of Ordinance prohibits the “possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks” anywhere within city limits. The penalty for violating this section is a $150 fine. Fireworks are defined as “Any combustible or explosive composition, or any substance or combination of substances or article prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation.” Sparklers, smoke bombs, and balloons that require “fire underneath to propel the balloon” (commercially called “sky lanterns”) are prohibited by this section. The easiest way to determine if a firework is not permitted by this ordinance to is ask yourself, “Does it ignite by a burning fuse or do I otherwise have to light it on fire to ‘make it work’ ”?  If so, it’s prohibited.  Novelty noise-makers sometimes called “party-poppers” and “bang-snaps” are not prohibited, so long as they are not lit on fire to operate.The Minot Police Department wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Independence Day.