MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — In the weeks leading up to July 4, Martinsburg residents have been receiving seemingly constant reminders not to set off fireworks within city limits.
Martinsburg officials hope to avoid a repeat of last year when the police department received nearly 90 fireworks-related complaints between June 20 and July 12, Martinsburg City Manager Mark Baldwin said.
Martinsburg council spent money to purchase advertisements and put up signs reminding residents of the ordinance because of a change in state law regarding the sale of certain fireworks.
Violators can be fined up to $500 and spend up to 30 days in jail, although Baldwin says they are hoping to avoid taking those steps.
Just last week Berkeley County adopted a fireworks ordinance that places restrictions on when and where fireworks can be set off.
The city will sponsor a professional fireworks show Tuesday night, weather permitting.