Fireworks Calls Keeping Sioux Falls Police Busy

Has your neighborhood sounded like a war zone the past few days?

You're not alone, a number of people throughout the Sioux Empire are complaining that it sounds like the military is conducting training exercises on their block ever since fireworks season started, and some residents are sick and tired of the friendly fire!

KDLT News is reporting that Sioux Falls Police have been on their toes trying to keep up with all the fireworks complaint calls so far.

According to the KDLT news report, since midday Friday (June 30) through Monday morning, (July 3), authorities have received over 90 fireworks complaint calls. But to the dismay of some, only six citations have been issued to date.

The use of fireworks within Sioux Falls city limits is illegal. However, the city firework ordinance does state that sparklers, snakes, and other fireworks that do not have an audible report, projectile, or launching component are permitted.

Failure to comply with the ordinance could land you a fine, especially if a police officer witnesses you discharging the firework. In that case, he or she can issue a citation, which carries a $95 fine.

During the 2016 fireworks season, Sioux Falls Police received a total of 521 firework complaint calls. They issued only 23 citations during the period. Almost 300 of the 521 calls received, took place on July 4 alone.

The city plans to dedicate 4 officers, one from each quadrant of the city to specifically handle firework calls this July 4. The same number of officers used as last year according to the KDLT News report.

Source: KDLT TV

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