Ahead of July 4, Aurora city officials are using social media posts, yard signs and more to warn residents against using illegal fireworks.
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Fireworks are generally illegal within the city of Aurora, and those who have or use them are subject to fines up to $1,000, with repeat offenders risking even higher fines. Those wishing to report the use of fireworks to the city can submit reports online at aurorail.citysourced.com, through the city’s 311 app or by calling the Customer Service Center at 311 or 630-256-4636.
If the use of fireworks is threatening the safety of people or property, then residents can instead call 911.
In a recent post to his campaign Facebook page, Aurora Mayor John Laesch warned that fireworks could “potentially start fires, torture dogs and other pets, harm veterans who have experienced combat” and lead to serious injuries.
Plus, “nobody wants to hear your 3 a.m. fireworks show,” his post said.
The city of Aurora’s own Facebook page focused specifically on fireworks’ impact on some veterans, as their loud noise can be triggering or distressing. The post urged residents to consider veterans’ well-being by finding other ways to celebrate July 4 that are inclusive and respectful.
City ordinance specifically bans people from selling, offering to sell, giving, storing, possessing, exploding, firing, igniting, discharging or otherwise using display fireworks, flame effects, consumer fireworks or any other pyrotechnic.
In addition to the fines issued to those who break the ordinance, owners of properties where illegal fireworks are being used can also face fines or, with repeat occurrences, liens on their properties, according to the city’s webpage about reporting the use of fireworks.
The city is distributing yard signs, door hangers and letters to warn residents against using fireworks. Those looking to help in the effort can join Laesch on Wednesday at 5 p.m. on the first floor of City Hall, according to a post he made on his campaign Facebook page.
Laesch has already gone door-to-door alongside the Aurora Police Department distributing door hangers and warning letters, one of his earlier Facebook posts said.
Aurora is hosting two events to celebrate Independence Day: a fireworks show on the evening of July 3 and a parade downtown on the morning of July 4.
The fireworks display will be in downtown Aurora, with city-suggested best viewing available at the Aurora Transportation Center and at McCullough Park. Food trucks and DJs are planned to be at both locations from 6 to 9:45 p.m., according to the city’s website.
Shuttles are expected to run, and city officials recommend using them to avoid issues finding parking and to avoid traffic when leaving.
The city’s annual parade in downtown starts at 10 a.m. July 4 at the intersection of Benton Street and Broadway. It will then head north on Broadway to Downer Place, then march west on Downer to Middle Avenue, where it will end.