MADISON – July 4 revelers are being reminded that fireworks are prohibited on all Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources land, including state parks, state forests and state owned public hunting and fishing properties.
“For the safety of our guests and our natural resources, fireworks are prohibited on state properties,” said Chris Madison, chief ranger with the Wisconsin State Park System. “Fourth of July favorites, the sparkler and the snake, are not defined as ‘fireworks’ per state law, but most park and forest rangers and managers discourage their use because they are a fire hazard.”
A citation for illegal fireworks in a state park or forest can cost up to $200 and parents could be liable for the full costs of putting out a fire started by their children playing with or setting off fireworks.
Anyone responsible for starting a wildfire in Wisconsin is liable not only for the cost of putting the fire out, but also for any damages.
Fireworks are restricted in Wisconsin and permits may be required. It’s best to check with local officials before purchasing and lighting them. A city, village, town or county may also enact an ordinance more strictly limiting fireworks sales or possessing them.
As of the last week of June, fire dangers levels throughout Wisconsin were low across the state, but even in low fire danger times, fireworks can start wildfires.
