The US Forest Service is reminding folks that all types of fireworks are still prohibited on Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest land including those sites in Habersham and Rabun Counties.
According to a Monday release “Despite recent changes to Georgia’s law regulating fireworks, the prohibition on National Forest System lands remains in place.”
Georgia lawmakers passed a new law this year legalizing the sale and possession of various types of pyrotechnics. The new law takes effect July 1 statewide but the USFS says federal regulations supersede the state law. “Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited on national forest lands year-round, regardless of weather conditions or holidays.”
If you run afoul of the federal fireworks prohibition you could face six months in prison and a $5000 fine.
Mostly the regulations are in place to avoid forest fires or other damage to the parks and facilities. Today’s release also reminds forest visitors to ensure that all fires are extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving them.
