Responding to recent changes in state law, the Milton is updating its noise ordinance to limit loud fireworks to specified hours on certain holidays.

The City Council had first reading of the amended ordinance June 18. A second reading and vote is expected July 9.

The changes prohibit “loud and unreasonable noise,” including consumer fireworks, except from 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Jan. 1, the last Saturday and Sunday in May, July 3 and 4, the first Monday in September, and Dec. 31; and from midnight to 1 a.m., Jan. 1.

Milton’s noise ordinance previously allowed fireworks year-round outside the hours of 9:01 p.m. to 9:59 a.m., except fireworks could go to 1 a.m. on Jan. 1, and until 11:59 p.m. certain other holidays.

The General Assembly passed a law this year that lets local governments regulate fireworks use after hearing complaints of neighbors setting off the devices year-round.

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Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez