Pittsburgh fireworks task force will be on the lookout for violators this weekend

Pittsburgh’s Fireworks Task Force will continue enforcing the city’s near-ban on fireworks throughout the Fourth of July weekend and into next week, authorities said.

The task force began its coordinated response Monday.

“We all know Pittsburghers love their fireworks, and while sales of consumer fireworks are legal, they remain a fire hazard and a safety concern,” said Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt.

Any fireworks, even those that are legal, are prohibited in all parks, on public property, and within 150 of any occupied building — restrictions that amount to a near total ban in the city.

The task force was formed in 2020 when, with public displays canceled due to covid-19, police received nearly 140 fireworks complaints in the first three weeks of June — a 389% increase in calls over the same time period in 2019.

Violations could result in a $100 fine and the seizure of the fireworks.

Festivities in Downtown Pittsburgh run from 4-10 p.m. Fireworks are set to begin at 9:35 p.m.

Point State Park will close at 9:30 p.m., so anyone wishing to watch the display from the park should be in the park by then, officials said.

Police warned of likely traffic congestion at the 10 p.m. conclusion of the fireworks and urged those heading Downtown t consider public transit or ride-sharing.

For pedestrians, more than a dozen light towers will be placed throughout the most heavily traveled sections of the Downtown.

Officials warned of high temperatures over the weekend and urged everyone to protect themselves from the heat and stay hydrated. Pets should also be watched closely, they said, as loud noises and flashing lights could prompt them to try to flee.

For more information on Downtown Pittsburgh festivities visit pittsburghpa.gov/july4