BELLINGHAM, Wash. – The City of Bellingham is reminding residents that fireworks are prohibited within the city limits.

They are sending out evening emphasis patrols over the holiday weekend and through the 4th to ensure awareness of the ban.

Any person who violates the ban will be fined at least $250 and up to $1,000.

For those who still want to enjoy fireworks, the Fourth of July festival will include a fireworks display over Bellingham Bay.

Other Independence Day events can be found on Bellingham’s tourism website at bellingham.org.

Fireworks are allowed in Whatcom County and its small cities leading up to and on the 4th, but days and times vary.

The Washington State Patrol has a comprehensive list of local fireworks regulations on their website.

The Whatcom County Fire Marshal reminds everyone that fireworks purchased at reservation stands are not legal outside of tribal territory.

Powerful fireworks like M-80’s and M-100’s are considered explosive devices and can bring criminal charges.

The fire marshal’s office says some legal fireworks are loud and are sometimes mistaken for illegal fireworks.

And they are asking that 911 calls only be made to report injuries to people, fires or danger to people or property.