This year, Village of Richton Park and its public safety departments are again emphasizing the importance of keeping residents and the community safe at all times.
As a reminder, residential use of fireworks are illegal. Each year, the Village receives dozens of 911 calls about unsafe "celebrations" within Richton Park neighborhoods. The improper use of fireworks has caused house fires, vehicle fires, unanticipated explosions and injuries to parties handling the composition and innocent bystanders in communities all across the United States.
Previously, the Village of Richton Park has attempted to curtail the illegal and improper use of fireworks with fines imposed at a maximum of $750.00 under non-home rule status. Now, with Home-Rule status, to deter residents and citizens from lighting fireworks at any point in time, the Village Board has approved the increase of maximum fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 per violation.
Furthermore, "the term 'fireworks' shall mean and include any explosive composition, or any substance prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by explosion, combustion, or detonation."
This decision follows extensive research of ordinances of several communities. It has been determined that adding “Host Liability” language to the ordinance will hold accountable responsible parties, including property owners, renters, landlord, who resides at the property, or is otherwise in charge of the activity on such property.
Adjusting the fine for up to $2000.00 for each violation will assist with limiting the illegal and improper use of fireworks in the Village, while holding the responsible parties accountable. Violations will be processed through the Village’s administrative adjudication system, as in past practice. Lastly, the Police Department and Fire Department will continue to partner with the Richton Park community to educate residents, visitors and stakeholders on the dangers of improperly handling fireworks.
According to legislation, shooting in the air is illegal, and the reckless discharge of a firearm is a Class 4 Felony, which if convicted, that individual could face a 1-3 year prison sentence, and fines of up to $25,000.
The Village of Richton Park’s top priority is keeping its residents and the community safe.