We in the Oakwood neighborhood have been experiencing some fireworks activity. Here is City Manager George Lahanas' blog post regarding the new city law:

Some of you may have heard about the new fireworks law passed by the State of Michigan, allowing local municipalities to prohibit late-night fireworks.
In response to this new law, the East Lansing City Council approved Ord. 1303 this week; prohibiting the use of consumer fireworks between 1 a.m. and 8 a.m. on the day before, the day of and the day after national holidays. The ordinance also upholds the City of East Lansing’s previous regulation, permitting consumer fireworks to only be used on national holidays and the days surrounding them. Ord. 1303 will become effective on July 17 of this year and violation of the ordinance could result in a civil infraction, which carries a maximum of a $500 fine.

With all of that being said, this new ordinance is less about penalizing people and more about making people aware of the norms in the East Lansing community. Our East Lansing neighborhoods include a diverse mix of households, from rentals where students oftentimes live to owner-occupied homes where young families, young professionals and seniors typically reside. While there are many advantages and great things to be said for diversity in neighborhoods, there is also a need to create an atmosphere that is respectful, comfortable and safe for all community members.
This new ordinance serves more as a reminder to be good neighbors and to help maintain the quality of life for all East Lansing residents.