Fireworks Allowed in Mat-Su for New Years Eve

Residents inside the MAT-SU borough boundaries are allowed to bring in the New Year with more than just confetti and the tune of Auld Lang Syne. The shooting off of fireworks in the MAT-SU borough is allowed on New Years Eve from 6pm to 1am.

There are some restricted areas where the use of fireworks are not allowed:

• Within 1,250 feet of any health care facility or assisted living space, library, school, or place of worship.
• Within 500 feet of any gas station or business where flammable fuels are stored
• Within, or from any structure or vehicle.

A ban on fireworks began in 1969 and held up until just last year when changes to the Borough Code were made by the MAT-SU Borough Assembly allowing fireworks on New Years Eve.

Residents should remember to be good neighbors, avoiding going past the 1 am cut-off and cleaning up all fireworks debris when finished.

One thing to keep in mind while using fireworks is that serious injuries can occur. Be extremely cautious:

• Always follow directions.
• Have a sober person present who is 21 years or older for discharge and supervision.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person or an animal.
• Do not carry them in your pockets.
• Never handle a firework that has malfunctioned (a dud). Sometimes the detonation is delayed and can cause serious injury if handled.
• Keep water close.

Discharge of fireworks are allowed on private property only with the property owners permission.

Rules for the cities of Palmer, Wasilla and Houston are different.

For more information call Code Compliance at 745-9853