Monroe County Fire Marshal releases fireworks permit application details

The Monroe County Fire Marshal's Office has released the application form for permits required for fireworks displays. Organizations planning to host fireworks events must submit the application to the Fire Marshal’s Office no less than 30 days prior to the scheduled event.

The application requires detailed information about the sponsoring and responsible organizations, including business names, addresses, and contact information. It also specifies the date, time, and approximate duration of the display, as well as the exact location of the property and display site.

A critical component of the application is the requirement for a site map. This map must clearly indicate the barge or launch location, the position of all buildings, highways, the designated audience restraint line, and any nearby obstructions such as trees, telephone lines, or other overhead structures. The map must also show distances from the shore, nearest building, and the audience.

In addition to the site map, applicants must provide evidence of insurance. The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners must be named as an Additional Insured party and listed as the Certificate Holder on a Commercial General Liability policy. This policy must have limits of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate. Statutory Workers’ Compensation with Employers Liability coverage of at least $500,000 is also required. Furthermore, Watercraft Liability and Jones Act coverage, each with minimum limits of $1,000,000, are necessary due to the likely use of a barge for the display.

The application also includes a section for regulations concerning the display of fireworks, referencing compliance with NFPA 1123 (2018 Ed.) and NFPA 1124 (2017 Ed.) standards. Specific distance requirements from buildings, overhead obstructions, and sensitive locations like hospitals are outlined. Off-shore discharges require a marine event permit from the U.S. Coast Guard.

The application form, identified as MCFR Fireworks Permit Application 02.09.22, is a multi-page document that includes sections for detailing the quantity, size, and type of each firework shell to be discharged.

For further information or to obtain the application form, interested parties should contact the Monroe County Fire Rescue at (305) 289-6005.