By Betsy Finklea
The Dillon City Council passed the second reading of an ordinance limiting the time during which fireworks can be discharged.
The ordinance (Ordinance 12-14) came about after the city received complaints about noise resulting from the use of fireworks during the early morning hours.
During the regular days of the year, the public may shoot fireworks between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. on any day of the week. Fireworks may not be discharged from 10 p.m. through 8 a.m.
On certain other days, these times are extended. On Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Independence Day Eve, Independence Day (July 4th), Memorial Day, Labor Day, General Election Day, Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving Day, citizens can shoot fireworks from 8 a.m. until 2 a.m. on the following day. Fireworks may not be discharged from 2 a.m. until 8 a.m.
Fireworks that “create excessive loud, disturbing and unnecessary noises” may not be shot at any time near schools or other learning institutions, library, sanatorium, hospital, court in session, or church during services.  These places must have  a sign displayed indicating what it is.
Violators may be fined up to $500 or not more than 30 days in jail upon conviction. Each day that the ordinance is violated is considered a separate offense, and the punishment will be separate.