Communities all across Pinellas County have been forced to cancel popular Fourth of July fireworks displays in light of the easy transmission of COVID-19 in large crowds. While communities have nixed municipal displays, a move by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year has paved the way for individuals to purchase fireworks legally.
In past years, individuals could purchase fireworks only by signing a waiver stating they would use them only for frightening away birds for agricultural work and fish hatcheries.
With the signing of SB 140 in April, DeSantis removed that restriction, allowing people 18 years and older to purchase fireworks to be used only on New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and Independence Day.
Area fire prevention officials are concerned about the potential uptick in fires and burn injuries as a result of the lenient regulations.