PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The city of Treasure Island is making sure that people know the rules when it comes to fireworks on the beach this Fourth of July.
City council members say they're not banning fireworks but they're going to strictly enforce ordinances already in place.
Those ordinances include a ban on throwing missiles, another one that prevents people from using fireworks on the beach because they're considered an open flame and another that stops people from using fireworks because they could leave behind litter or debris.
Officials also said they're cracking down on another rule that bans lights on the beach that could confuse sea turtles.
The turtles are in the middle of their nesting season.
“Our beach is a beautiful place to spend the day on the 4th of July, to watch the sunset, and finish it off with our wonderful city fireworks display. However, the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors have become threatened over the past few years,” Mayor Tyler Payne said. “I have personally witnessed an inordinate number of personal fireworks being launched from our beach with minimal precautions. Our residents who want to enjoy the fireworks display their tax dollars fund now are hesitant to be on the beach because they are scared for their safety.”
These current city ordinances (already on the books) include the use of personal fireworks ARE:
- City Ordinance (58-45) Building Fires Without a Permit
- Fireworks will be considered as using an open flame on the beach.
- City Ordinance (58-51) Leave No Trace-Obstructions on Beach
- Since fireworks leave debris and litter on the beach, they fall under the Leave No Trace ordinance.
- City Ordinance (68-466) Lighting/Beach Lighting
- Light from fireworks is not sea turtle friendly and therefore not permitted during sea turtle nesting season.
- City Ordinance (58-36) Throwing Missiles Prohibited