Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard issued an emergency disaster declaration Saturday banning the personal use of fireworks in Indianapolis and Marion County for the next week because of the dry conditions. However, the mayor‘s declaration does not affect professional fireworks shows that are licensed by the state.
The mayor‘s spokesman, Marc Lotter, says civil and criminal penalties are possible for those caught shooting fireworks during the ban. Lotter says they are also asking residents to not call 911 to report a fireworks violation, as they would like to keep the lines free for genuine emergencies.
The mayor of Beech Grove issued a similar declaration for his city, banning the use of personal fireworks all this week.