THE eThekwini Municipality reminded residents that the use of fireworks on New Year’s Eve is only permitted between 23:45 and 00:15.
According to the City’s spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, the City appealed to residents to use fireworks responsibly on New Year’s Eve and to be mindful of the impact fireworks have on animals.
He said the by-laws are in place to govern the lighting of fireworks.
“Fines will be issued if anyone is in contravention of them. According to the City by-laws, fireworks must be restricted to a person’s property and may not be lit on a public road,” said Mayisela.
He said residents could face fines up to R3 500 as an admission of guilt.
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“The fine for discharging fireworks on the road is R1 000, and the fine for discharging fireworks in public is R2 500,” said Mayisela.
He added that the by-laws also call for children, under 16 years, to be supervised by an adult when using fireworks.
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“Fireworks should be detonated away from hospitals, clinics, old age/nursing homes, animal welfare organisations, and petrol stations. Fireworks should not be pointed towards any person, as this is dangerous,” he said.
By-law overview:
• No person shall ignite, discharge, or explode any fireworks on any public road, residence, or private dwelling without the knowledge and consent of the occupant or owner of the property.
• It is unlawful for any person to point or direct a firework at any person, animal, building, or motor vehicle where such firework is in the process of exploding or detonating.
• No person shall light or detonate fireworks in any place where animals are kept.
• No person may terrify, cause stress, or endanger the life of any animal with fireworks or by any other means.
Mayisela noted that fireworks cannot be recycled and must be disposed of in black bin bags.
He added that the City wishes all residents a happy New Year.
Residents are urged to contact 031 361 0000 for emergencies.
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