County Board Approves Fireworks Ordinance

The Effingham County Board Monday approved an ordinance allowing for the sale of certain types of fireworks not previously allowed.

The measure allows for the sale of certain types of Class C fireworks. It's a pared-back measure from what was originally discussed, meaning firecrackers, bottle rockets and Roman candles will not be available. However, ground displays and those items that lift into the air and burst at their peak height to create stars or other efffects will be available for purchase.

Effingham County State's Attorney Bryan Kibler said the latest measure is acceptable because it's lawful. Kibler also said he doesn't see liability problems for the County. He said the measure conforms with State law and also requires that any vendor put up $1 million in insurance.

County Board Chairman Jim Niemann said a State Fire Marshal's Office representative would be in Effingham this Wednesday night at the County EMA Building next door to Auto Mall for a "Train the Trainer" session. Since the fire chiefs in the county will have the say on whether a stand is properly designed to sell fireworks, Effingham County Board Chairman Jim Niemann said he has invited fire departments from the county to attend. To this point, Shumway is the only department that has indicated to the County they will have staff in attendance.

County board member Jeff Simpson voted against the measure. 

County Board Vice-Chairman Dave Campbell said applications to sell fireworks will be available at the County Board office.