CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – A new ordinance proposed by Ward 6 City Councilwoman Wanda Smith would place more restrictions on fireworks use in Clarksville.
In last night’s council executive session meeting, Smith called the new ordinance necessary following a series of firework-related injuries over the July 4 holiday weekend. Smith specifically referred to “firework wars,” in which individuals launch fireworks at one another.
According to Smith, Clarksville-Montgomery County 911 Center received 670 firework-related 911 calls between May 15 and July 11, almost twice as many as last year. Many of these calls led to custodial arrests.
Smith also referenced a home in the 700 block of Ford Street that was destroyed on June 29. Clarksville Fire Rescue believes the damage to have been caused by fireworks.
Ordinance 8-2020-21 would expand City Code section 10-218, making it illegal to discharge fireworks into or out of a motor vehicle or to throw fireworks at a person, group of people or building.
The fine for doing so would be $50 and court costs as well as any other charges associated with the act, such as assault or arson.
10-218 is the same ordinance limiting the dates and times that fireworks can be used within city limits.
“It is sad that we have come to the point that we need this, but nevertheless, here it is,” said Mayor Joe Pitts.