Legal-Ease: When are fireworks lawful?

As we approach the July 4th holiday, some may be wondering if it’s legal for residents to possess and discharge fireworks. Traditional fireworks are technically considered to be “1.4g fireworks.” Only people who are licensed with the state of Ohio may possess 1.4g fireworks for more than 48 hours. The fireworks license is also required to discharge 1.4g fireworks.

Independence Day later this week will likely be marked by cookouts, gatherings of family and friends and other outdoor activities. Many communities have firework displays at various times during the holiday weekend, too. At the same time or after, some of our neighbors will also discharge fireworks. What is lawful and what is unlawful when it comes to fireworks?

Legal-Ease: Levels of legal authority

In the United States thousands of laws are in place that are not created by the government. Federal laws that aren’t passed by Congress are called “regulations.” Regulations have the effect of the law, but they can’t exceed the authority from the Constitution or the laws that are passed by Congress.

In the United States and in Ohio, there are literally thousands of laws that are created by bureaucrats who do not work for Congress, the Ohio General Assembly or any local government.

Legal-Ease: Who’s responsible when crops obstruct views?

Crops planted near roadway intersections, often corn, can raise questions regarding who is responsible for an accident if the crops obstruct the view of traffic. Often the landowner or farmer can be found responsible if the crop unreasonably obstructs the view at an intersection.