Don’t Do This With Fireworks—You Could Be Fined $1,000 in Michigan

The 4th of July weekend is finally here, and yeah, we all love blowing stuff up. But hold up, before you start lighting anything, you gotta know Michigan’s fireworks laws. Screw this up, and you’re looking at a big fine or even jail time. No thanks.

I think most people are aware of what's legal and illegal when it comes to fireworks, but when you look over and see your buddy stumbling around with a beer in one hand and a lighter in the other, you might want to step in.

Things can escalate quickly when alcohol or weed is involved, and when it comes to fireworks, it can be downright deadly. That might sound a little dramatic, but just ask Two-Finger Tom, who spent last 4th of July in the ER after getting a little too out of control.

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What Can Get You Fined for Fireworks in Michigan?

There are a few things that’ll land you in hot water real quick if you’re messing around with fireworks in Michigan. Here’s what not to do this weekend:

🚫 Lighting Fireworks While Drunk or High

Yeah, this one’s a no-brainer. If you’re stumbling around with a drink in one hand and a lighter in the other, that’s illegal. Doesn’t matter if it’s booze, weed, or whatever—if you’re under the influence, you’re not supposed to be lighting anything. Trust me, I almost went deaf for being stupid on the 4th many years ago.

Fine: Up to $500 and maybe even 30 days in jail.

🚫 Setting Off Fireworks on Public Property

You can’t light fireworks on sidewalks, in the street, in a park, on school property, or anywhere that’s not your own.

🚫 Blasting Fireworks Outside the Legal Dates

[UPDATED] Michigan law protects certain dates where cities and townships can’t ban fireworks, including June 29 through July 4, and July 5 if it falls on a Friday or Saturday.

Even then, you’re only allowed to light fireworks between 11:00 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. Outside those hours—or outside that date range—your local city or township might have rules that make it illegal.

Penalty: Civil fine of up to $1,000 per violation, depending on local ordinances

So have fun, but don’t be the idiot who ruins everyone’s night or worse, ends up with a big fine or a trip to the ER. Play it smart, follow the rules, and have an awesome 4th of July weekend.