Ordinance Looks To Limit Fireworks Displays In East Brunswick

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Before setting off fireworks in East Brunswick, make sure you check the latest updates. The Township has introduced an ordinance that looks to limit the number and duration of commercial fireworks in the township. The Council introduced the ordinance on Sept. 13.

According to the ordinance no one can set off fireworks in the Township unless they have a permit from the Clerk. Permit applications must be filed within 30 and 90 days before the date of the fireworks display. Those who violate the ordinance will be subject to a fine and each violation will be considered a separate offense.

The display has to be operated by a licensed fireworks contractor in case large amounts of fireworks will be set off in immediate succession.

The ordinance allows only one firework display in town per month, except in December, January, and February when no fireworks will be allowed. From June to August two firework displays will be allowed in the township. Firework displays at the start and end of the Middlesex County Fair and East Brunswick's 4th of July celebrations will not be counted in the Townships’ monthly total.

The ordinance limits the firework displays to 25 minutes and must be concluded by 9:35 p.m. Permits will not be issued for dates that immediately precede school days.

To apply for a permit, the applicant must submit their name and address, date and time of fireworks display, location of the fireworks display, and consent of the property owner. They also need to provide the name of the licensed firework contractor, and a certificate of insurance naming the Township as additional insured, with property damage coverage of at least $1 million and umbrella coverage of $4 million.

The applicant also needs to present a surety bond of $2,500 from the state or provide a cash escrow of the same amount to ensure the contractor cleans the debris and fixes any damage from the fireworks display.

The second reading and public hearing of the ordinance will be held on Sept. 27, during the Council meeting.

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