We are now less than a week away from the one night each year that I absolutely love and my two dogs absolutely detest.

That would be the 4th of July. And with Independence Day coming up fast, fireworks are now officially for sale to South Dakota residents. Those of us who live in the state can now purchase them through July 5.

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So, I would imagine you'll soon begin hearing things that go boom each night in most neighborhoods throughout the Sioux Empire if you haven't already.

Sioux Falls and many surrounding communities have pretty stringent laws when it comes to the types of fireworks you're allowed to discharge within city limits. According to the fireworks ordinance for Sioux Falls, fireworks that fly in the air or explode with an audible report are illegal within city limits. However, things like sparklers, snakes, cones, (in other words, the boring stuff) that do not have a report are completely fine to discharge inside of town.

"The use of fireworks within Sioux Falls city limits is illegal. Sioux Falls Ordinance prohibits the use of fireworks within the city limits with the exception of sparklers, snakes, and other fireworks that do not have an audible report, projectile, or launching component. If a police officer observes fireworks being discharged, he or she can issue a citation, which carries a $95 fine." - City of Sioux Falls

What's the fine for shooting illegal fireworks inside Sioux Falls city limits?

Try $95.00 on for size. Yeah, it's spendy, but probably not even close to the amount of coin you laid down for that Giant Panda assortment set you purchased, right?

And when it comes to enforcing the fireworks ordinance within city limits, let's just say the PD have their work cut out for them. Last year my neighborhood on Sioux Falls's west side sounded like the streets of a warzone. It was out of control!

I'm guessing this year probably won't be much different, so the chances of getting busted are pretty slim should you attempt to risk it. Just don't blame me if Gladys your nosy neighbor turns you in.

When it comes to discharging fireworks...

In 2022, the South Dakota Fire Marshall urged residents to practice fireworks safety. Fire Marshal Paul Merriman told Dakota News Now, “We understand that many people enjoy discharging fireworks, but at the same time, we urge people to be careful. If not used properly, fireworks can be dangerous to people and property.”

Merriman suggests you familiarize yourself with the rules or ordinances regarding fireworks for your local city or county. And then remember, even with our recent rains, thanks to the extreme heat we've received lately, things are beginning to get quite dry in many areas throughout the state. The potential for starting a fire while discharging fireworks remains great. So please keep that in mind as you and your family celebrate this Independence Day.

Here are some other common sense fireworks safety tips courtesy of The National Safety Council.

Source: Dakota News Now/ National Safety Council

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