Don’t forget new fireworks rules for Island County

Don’t be surprised if you see fireworks light up the skies across the island as early as 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning.

Island County adopted new regulations last year that specify the days and times that people can light off fireworks.

The regulations are specific to where a person lives.

Fireworks may only be lit on private property — beaches, parks and schools are off-limits across all of Island County.

In Coupeville and Langley, residents may light fireworks only between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4.

In unincorporated Island County, residents may light fireworks 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 3, 9 a.m. to midnight on July 4, and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 5.

Oak Harbor residents get a head start on Independence Day celebrations since they are allowed to set off fireworks a few days earlier. Approved times for discharge of fireworks within city limits is noon to 11 p.m. starting on June 28.

City residents can also light fireworks 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 29 through July 3, 9 a.m. to midnight on July 4 and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 5.

The Knights of Columbus Council 3361 have a stand in the parking lot of the Auld Holland Inn off State Highway 20.

Maurie Tonini and Tom Hiestand said that the fireworks sale is one of the largest fundraisers for their organization, and they use the money to fund scholarships and support charities.

Tonini said that the fireworks leave behind some waste, like cardboard and plastic packaging, but that it’s on the owner to clean it up.

Oak Harbor Rotary will have its fireworks stand in the parking lot of Rite Aid in Oak Harbor again this year.

Rotary’s delivery of fireworks was delayed, but was expected by Thursday afternoon.