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South Bend, IN Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Legal
Consumer 1.4G, age 18+
July 4
10 AM to midnight
Other July dates
5 PM-11 PM, Jun 29-Jul 9
New Year
10 AM Dec 31-1 AM Jan 1
Fines
$100 / $250 / $500

Summary

Consumer fireworks are legal in South Bend but limited to set dates and hours: 5-11 PM June 29-July 9, 10 AM-midnight July 4, and 10 AM Dec 31 to 1 AM Jan 1. Never on streets or in parks.

No person may use, ignite or discharge consumer fireworks within the corporate limits of the City of South Bend except during the following times: Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on June 29, 30, July 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight on July 4, and between the hours of 10:00 a.m. on December 31 and 1:00 a.m. on January 1.

Source: South Bend Municipal CodeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 65).

Full Breakdown

Indiana law (IC 22-11-14) lets adults 18+ use consumer fireworks and bars cities from banning them, so South Bend restricts only hours and location under Sec. 13-59 (Ord. 10628-18). Discharge is allowed 5 PM-11 PM on June 29 through July 9 (except July 4), 10 AM to midnight on July 4, and 10 AM December 31 to 1 AM January 1. Fireworks may never be used on a public street or in a public park. They must be set off on private property with the owner's consent, and all debris must land back on that same property.

Violations & Fines

Discharging outside allowed hours or on public property is fined $100 first offense, $250 second, and $500 for a third and each subsequent offense. Reckless use can bring criminal and civil liability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can South Bend ban fireworks?
No. Indiana law preempts a full ban, so the city can only limit the hours and locations of consumer fireworks, not prohibit them outright.
Can I set off fireworks in the street?
No. Fireworks are banned on any public street or park at all times. Use private property with the owner's consent, and keep all debris on that property.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in South Bend

All South Bend rules

How South Bend compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·Compare South Bend to another location·View the Indiana fire regulations overview

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