One less hour for shooting fireworks Jan. 1

If you’re shooting fireworks in Decatur New Year’s Eve and on into New Year’s Day, it needs wrapping up by 1 a.m.

In truth this has been the state law for several years. Earlier this month, however, Decatur updated its ordinances to reflect language in the state law.

didn’t want two sets of law, where the provisions in ours were unenforceable,” said City Manager Peggy Merriss.

The Georgia legislature legalized the purchase and use of a variety of fireworks in 2015. But the past two general assembly sessions have seen revisions to the original laws. Decatur’s ordinances include three major changes:

■ The use of fireworks are prohibited on city property.

■ The hours for shooting fireworks are 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. for all days but July 3 and 4, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, when it’s 10 a.m. until 11:59, excepting New Year’s Day when it’s extended to 1 a.m. (previously it was 2 a.m.).

■ Sale of fireworks can only occur in a C-3 or heavy commercial district. In Decatur this is limited to the East College Avenue/ Sams Street area.

Merriss said she recalls no claims of property damage or personal injury since fireworks became legal. She did say major complaints have revolved around noise into the early-morning hours and the debris left behind at a private/ amateur fireworks site.