[HISTORY: Adopted by the County Board of Stephenson County 5-8-1973 (Ch. 6 of the
1977 Code). Amendments noted where applicable.]
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
following meanings:
Any explosive composition or any substance or combination
of substances, or article prepared for the purpose of producing a
visible or audible effect of a temporary exhibitional nature by explosion,
combustion, deflagration or detonation, and shall include blank cartridges,
toy cannons, in which explosives are used, the type of balloons which
require fire underneath to propel the same, firecrackers, torpedoes,
sky rockets, Roman candles, sparklers, bombs or other fireworks of
like construction and any fireworks containing any explosive compound;
or any tablets or other device containing any explosive substance,
or containing combustible substances producing visual effects. The
term "fireworks" shall not include toy pistols, toy canes, toy guns,
or other devices in which paper or plastic caps containing 0.25 grain
or less of explosive compound are used, provided they are so constructed
that the hand cannot come in contact with the cap when in place for
the explosion, and toy pistol paper or plastic caps which contain
less than 0.25 grain of explosive mixture.
A showing for profit or not for profit of fireworks for the
purpose of producing a visible or audible effect to be viewed or heard
by three or more individuals.
[Amended 11-11-1986 by Ord. No. 86-99]
The provisions of this chapter shall apply only to the unincorporated
areas within Stephenson County, except that this chapter shall also
apply within those cities, villages and incorporated towns whose governing
boards have, by official action, empowered Stephenson County to enforce
and administer this chapter within the corporate boundaries. The County
shall assume such jurisdiction only after the receipt of a written
certified document evidencing such official action by the governing
board.
Every fireworks display shall be handled by a competent individual
designated by the Sheriff. Such fireworks display shall be so located,
discharged or fired as not to be hazardous to property or endanger
any person or persons. A plat shall be submitted of the location of
the fireworks display area when an application is made for a permit.
[Amended 4-11-2007 by Ord. No. 07-04-1446]
A.Â
An application for the required permit shall be made in writing to
the County Clerk on forms provided by the Clerk, at least 15 days
in advance of the date of the display, and action shall be taken on
such application within 48 hours after such application is made.
B.Â
No permit granted by the Clerk shall be transferable.
C.Â
Permits may be granted to any groups of three or more adult individuals
applying therefor.
D.Â
No permit shall be required for supervised public fireworks displays
by the Stephenson County Fair Association.
Any person who violates any portion of this chapter shall be
punished as provided by the Pyrotechnic Use Act of Illinois, 425 ILCS
35/0.01 et seq.
