TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — The Fourth of July is less than a month away and many people have already been making plans.
But those headed to Treasure Island shouldn’t bring fireworks to the beach — the city is effectively banning them using existing ordinance to stop people from setting them off.
What You Need To Know
- According to Treasure Island city officials, last year, Fourth of July celebrations were unsafe
- In response, fireworks are banned on Treasure Island beaches
- Officials are using existing rules regarding litter and sea turtle safety to ban them
Fire Chief Trip Barrs said the move came about after a number of people were found fireworks in an unsafe way on the beach last year.
“There were families sitting right next to groups of people discharging mortars and roman candles and fireworks that fly all over the place,” Barrs said. “It was a really scary situation.”
While state law allows people to light fireworks on the Fourth of July, city officials say several ordinances will prevent their use on the beach, including the “Leave No Trace” ordinance against litter, an ordinance that bans open flames on the beach and a light ordinance to protect turtles.
The city’s fireworks show, which can be seen from the beach, will still take place.
“We put a lot of effort into making sure we have a great fireworks show, and that it’s safe for the public to attend,” Barrs said.
City officials said the goal is not to ticket people, but rather educate the public. Still, volunteer beach ambassadors will be on hand and let police know if violations are underway.