For Professionals Only Fireworks, when used for entertainment, are illegal in Florida. State statute 791 mandates that the use of illegal fireworks is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail. ...more

June 30, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY -- Abuse of fireworks in West Pasco backyards usually lights the fuses on tempers of area residents about every Fourth of July. Despite complaints, officials say there is little they can do about individuals buying and setting off illegal fireworks, such as bottle rockets. ...more

June 21, 2008

Regarding "Group Studies Fireworks Sales, Use" (Metro, Feb.18): The task force was a joke as evidenced that three of eight members were from the fireworks industry. Since there is an existing law banning most fireworks, the task force was not needed. Law enforcement just needs to enforce the current law. So now we will have more laws that local law enforcement agencies will not enforce. I was told by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office that they would not respond to my call regarding illegal fireworks in my neighborhood. ...more

February 19, 2008

For the members of a statewide task force on fireworks, the overriding message from the public was clear: Please ban the bangs. ...more

February 18, 2008

CLEARWATER -- For the members of a statewide task force on fireworks, the overriding message from the public was clear: Please ban the bangs. But a prohibition on exploding and aerial amusements, which a majority of blast-weary people across Florida told the panel they wanted, was not possible from the start. ...more

February 14, 2008

Treated To Holiday Noise What will it take to stop amateurs from setting off fireworks for recreational purposes? Does someone have to be injured or killed? ...more

January 4, 2008

The Florida Consumer Fireworks Task Force meets from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday in Clearwater. Welch, one of eight members on the statewide panel, said the meeting will give Tampa Bay area residents a chance to voice their opinions about an issue that often comes down to public safety versus individual rights. ...more

October 24, 2007