Oshkosh approves higher fines for illegal fireworks

OSHKOSH, WI – (WISS) – Residents in the City of Oshkosh will now be able to fine residents who set off illegal fireworks up to $1000. The Oshkosh Common Council voted Tuesday to update the city’s fireworks ordinance.

The council voted unanimously to amend the ordinance to increase the penalty for violation of the ordinance. Oshkosh laws prohibit fireworks that explode with loud noises or that shoot up into the air. The amended ordinance would increase the fine for the first offense in a three-year period to $125. The fine for the second offense is $225. And the fine for third and subsequent offenses will be $1000.

The new ordinance pleases Council member Karl Buelow. 

“This is lower than I originally intended,” said Buelow. “I love that the headline on this and the picture in all the local newspapers are going to say ‘You can be fined up to $1000!’”

The Oshkosh Common Council asked for the ordinance change after hearing from residents on the potentially serious effects loud fireworks can have on the quality of life of those who may have mental health conditions or PTSD.

The ordinance also sets up tiered fines for juveniles charged with using illegal fireworks in the city limits. The fines for juveniles will be $100 for the first offense in a three-year period, $150 for the second offense, and $500 for the third offense.