A 2022 Ohio law (House Bill 172) took effect on July 1, 2022, permitting the use of consumer-grade 1.4G fireworks on certain holidays. That same law also allows municipalities to restrict or completely ban the use of fireworks within their city limits.

To reduce the risk of fires and traumatic injuries in our community, Westlake City Council passed legislation banning the discharging, ignition, or exploding of consumer-grade fireworks (1.4G) anywhere in the City of Westlake (Westlake Codified Ordinance 1519.04). This does not apply to novelties, such as sparklers, noisemakers, and small novelty smoke bombs.

Public exhibition fireworks (Class 1.3G) require a permit to possess, discharge, or sell. The City of Westlake encourages the public to view a public fireworks exhibition to celebrate Independence Day on July 4th at Clague Park at dusk (approximately 10:00 PM) as a safe alternative to the use of consumer fireworks.

A note for pet owners: fireworks can frighten pets and cause them to bolt. Keep animals indoors, make sure they're wearing ID tags, and give them a quiet space away from windows.