Crime & Safety

Salem Residents Asked To Report Illegal Fireworks

After a very noisy Fourth of July season last year amid the coronavirus shutdowns, the city is taking a tough stand with fines this spring.

Salem officials are looking to avoid the months of loud private fireworks parties this summer that permeated most cities in 2020.
Salem officials are looking to avoid the months of loud private fireworks parties this summer that permeated most cities in 2020. (Scott Souza/Patch)

SALEM, MA — The constant bangs, bursts and whistles of fireworks could be heard all over Salem — and most other cities during the coronavirus lockdowns — in 2020.

Salem officials are looking to avoid a repeat of that this year and are asking residents to help it through reporting offenders.

The city has set up an illegal fireworks report line here.

Find out what's happening in Salemfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

There is a $300 fine per person per incident for personal fireworks use. The city said earlier in the spring it was postponing its municipal Fourth of July fireworks show until — hopefully — August due to lingering coronavirus.

Selling fireworks can bring a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in prison.

Find out what's happening in Salemfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Reports can be made anonymously.

While fireworks can bring a fine, they are also dangerous.

Residents considering a secret stash are reminded they can cause personal injury, fires, stress to pets and distress for both children and veterans who have experienced combat.

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