As Independence Day draws closer fireworks will become more and more common and it’s a good time to review the ordinances across Greene County.

Greene County Sheriff Jack Williams says consumer fireworks are prohibited in any of the incorporated towns in the county, including Jefferson. However, those that live in the rural portions of the county are allowed to shoot off consumer fireworks. He points out within city limits the only fireworks allowed, without a permit that has been approved by a city council, are sparklers, snakes and smoke bombs, or those that don’t have a sound when set off. 

As Jefferson Fire Chief, Williams reminds everyone looking to celebrate with fireworks to follow the directions of each firework and none, with exception of a sparkler, require you to hold in your hand. He offers these other safety tips to prevent an actual fire from happening.

“Just make sure, if you’re lighting them even in your yard, have a bucket of water or a hose out so you can put out a fire that may start. Make sure that you’re not setting them off near switchgrass because Greene County has a lot of switchgrass, and it is dry and will burn fast.”

Williams adds, the unincorporated parts of the county adhere to the state law concerning fireworks, including the dates and times that consumer fireworks are allowed to be displayed. Those include June 1st-July 8th from 9am-10pm, with exception of July 4th and the Saturdays and Sundays immediately preceding the holiday, fireworks are allowed from 9am-11pm.