Across the nation, Independence Day will be observed over the upcoming holiday. The City of Spearfish encourages residents to celebrate and practice safety during all Fourth of July activities – and reminds everyone that fireworks are not allowed within City Limits nor the Black Hills Fire Protection District.
“Independence Day is a time to celebrate, and we hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend,” Public Safety Director Pat Rotert said.
The 24th annual Spearfish 4th of July parade starts at 12:15 p.m. from the Spearfish High School parking lot, traveling south on North Main Street through downtown Spearfish to Grant Street.
There will be a B-1 bomber flyover shortly after the start of the parade.
“There are many ways to observe the holiday, but remember that within Spearfish City Limits, you may not shoot off fireworks. In addition to following the law, be thoughtful of your neighbors and community,” Public Safety Director Rotert said.
Spearfish City Ordinance Section 7-3, Sale or discharge of fireworks, states, “No person may sell or caused to be sold, discharge or caused to be discharged, any pyrotechnics or fireworks of any description whatsoever within the city. Exception: the discharge of fireworks as part of a professional display operated by a licensed pyrotechnic operator under the procedure set forth in the International Fire Code, as adopted from time to time.”
Those wishing to set off fireworks outside of Spearfish City Limits should be aware of conditions and take necessary safety precautions. They must also be aware of restrictions: South Dakota Codified Law 34-37-11 states that no fireworks are allowed within the boundary, or within 300 feet of the boundary, of the Black Hills Fire Protection District, nor within any public lands, including national forest, national park, state forest, or any land owned or leased by South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks.
In observance of the Independence Day holiday, Spearfish City Hall, Grace Balloch Memorial Library, and all City offices will be closed Thursday, July 4th.