Carol Stream continues crackdown on fireworks

Carol Stream's crackdown on illegal fireworks got off to a good start last year when authorities fielded fewer complaints than they had in the past.

The real test, however, comes this weekend when police will see if their continuing education campaign is still working.

"Hopefully people know about it already," Chief Kevin Orr said. "We'll find out."

Last June, the village passed an ordinance that allows police to write a $250 ticket for anyone caught with illegal fireworks. The department had been dealing with many complaints from residents on the issue.

Orr said there were 95 fireworks complaints last year compared to 157 in 2007. The department issued 17 tickets on July 4 last year.

"I think it had an impact," Orr said of the ordinance.

The village continued letting residents know about the fine this year through its cable TV channel and on the radio.

Before the $250 fine, the police department was only able to cite residents based on state statute.

Now, if residents don't pay the $250 within 10 days, they must go to court and could pay a much higher fine.

"This ordinance is easier to handle," Orr said. "We seize the fireworks then and there and give them a ticket."