New Year's Fireworks: A Primer

As we approach the New Year's holiday, many people want to celebrate with fireworks, while others hope for a peaceful evening. This guide will help you understand how to enjoy fireworks legally and safely, or what to do if they're causing problems in your neighborhood.

The City of Houston is the only community in south-central Alaska where fireworks are allowed on private property all year long, as long as you have the property owner's permission. However, during New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, special rules apply and other communities allow fireworks use. Of course, none of these ordinances affect professional shows.

New Year holiday legal hours are:

City of Wasilla (Wasilla Municipal Code 8.04): Allowed from 6:00 pm December 31 until 1:00 am January 1. See your local ordinances for restrictions on locations.

City of Palmer (Palmer Municipal Code 8.42): Allowed from 6:00 pm December 31 until 1:00 am January 1. See your local ordinances for other restrictions.

City of Houston (Houston Municipal Code 8.05): Allowed 7:00 am until 1:00 am from December 29 to January 4, otherwise 7:00 am to 11:00 pm. See your local ordinances for other restrictions.

Rest of Mat-Su (Mat-Su Borough Code 8.35): Allowed from 6:00 pm December 31 until 1:00 am January 1, when supervised by someone 21 years old or older. See your local ordinances for other restrictions.

If someone uses fireworks illegally in your area, the best first step is talking with your neighbors before New Year's Eve. Have a friendly conversation about your concerns, especially if you have pets or family members who are sensitive to loud noises. Most people will understand and work with you to find a solution. We are a nation of liberties, but we are also a community of neighbors.

If you need to report illegal fireworks use to authorities, don't call 911 unless there's a fire or other emergency. Do not call Alaska State Troopers because state officers have no authority to enforce local ordinances and there are no state laws against the use on New Year. Instead, contact your local code compliance office. Take videos or photos as evidence, showing where the fireworks came from. While officers may not respond immediately to firework complaints, they can investigate later, possibly fine violators, and help prevent future problems.

If you're planning to use fireworks, safety should be your top priority. Read and follow all instructions on the package. Never hold lit fireworks or point them at others. Make sure a responsible adult who isn't drinking alcohol supervises all firework activities. Never modify fireworks - this can lead to serious injuries. For those concerned about noise, ask firework sellers about "quiet fireworks" that make less noise but still create beautiful displays.

Many of our neighbors, including veterans and pets, may be startled by unexpected fireworks. By following these guidelines and being thoughtful of others, we can all enjoy a safe and happy New Year's celebration. Nobody wants to be awakened at 3:00 am to the sound of fireworks or gunfire. Be respectful.