New fireworks law could create problems

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - This weekend marks the first big holiday weekend since Michigan changed its fireworks laws, which has many area municipalities considering changing their ordinances.

Currently, the rule is that a local government can't regulate the sale of fireworks. However, it can regulate how they're used, unless it's a holiday.

The rule states that the day before, the day of, and the day after a national holiday a local government can't tell you what to do with fireworks, which could create some problems.

"The City prohibition on shooting a firework off at 2 o'clock in the morning doesn't apply 30 days out of the year and that potentially could create problems if you have a neighborhood situation," said Grandville City Manager Ken Krombeen. "We're a densely populated community. You could have one person in the neighborhood keeping the rest of the people in the neighborhood up by their behavior with fireworks."

Several major cities in West Michigan are taking another look at their city noise ordinances to regulate fireworks on the 335 days a year that they do have power.

But, this is good news for a brand new business in Kentwood.

Jake's Fireworks hosted its grand opening on Friday at its new location on 28th Street and Patterson.

Jake's is capitalizing on the new law put into effect and selling the types of fireworks that shoot into the air--something that people used to have to go to other states to buy.

"We're pleased to be in Michigan. And we do thank the City of Kentwood for allowing us to open here and being very receptive to us so hopefully everyone will come see our store and have a great holiday," said John Miketa, the manager of Jake's Fireworks Superstore.

Facts about the new Michigan law on fireworks:

• The law allows the sale and use of major fireworks previously banned in the state.
• The law means firecrackers, loud fireworks and fireworks that shoot into the air are legal.
• The state so far has approved about 500 certificates to businesses that want to sell.
• Some fireworks will be sold in stores while others will be sold under temporary tents.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.