DUANE SHERRILLEditor

While the city and surrounding areas will enjoy the Tullahoma Regional Independence Day Celebration Thursday evening, many in the area have already been enjoying their own fireworks much to the chagrin of pet owners.

According to Tullahoma’s fireworks code, fireworks have been on sale since June 17 of this year at one of the several fireworks tents around the Greater Tullahoma area. However, the same code only allows shooting fireworks within the city limits of Tullahoma July 1-4 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. There is an exception on July 4 when it is lawful to shoot fireworks in the city limits up until 11:30 p.m. Fireworks stands may continue selling fireworks through July 5. The next window for fireworks sales does not come until Dec. 21 through Jan. 1, 2006 for the New Year observance when Tullahomans can only shoot for a total of five hours, beginning at 8 p.m. New Year’s Eve and ending at 1 a.m. New Year’s morning.

While the city has a strict law, places outside the city are governed by nuisance laws when it comes to fireworks. While there is no code outside the city limits, those who do shoot fireworks deep into the night could face restriction under the state nuisance law should irritated neighbors decide to push the issue and claim a disturbance of the peace.

Violators of the fireworks law in Tullahoma could be hit with a $50 fine for each infraction. Along with the fireworks code, the city and state have wildfire limitations should the wildfire risks be high.

As for the providers of the fireworks, permits to sell fireworks run $1,000 for the summer period and 500 for the New Year period. Those wanting to have a special display for a birthday, wedding, business or school can pay a $5 permit fee.

It is unlawful for a child under 16 to purchase fireworks or for any intoxicated person to buy fireworks. It is also unlawful to ignite fireworks within 600 feet of a church, assisted living facility, nursing home, hospital, funeral home or school.