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1. Are fireworks legal?

No, you cannot set fireworks off in the State of Ohio.

2. As a citizen of the State of Ohio, can I buy and use fireworks?

Yes, you may buy consumer or 1.4G fireworks from a licensed wholesaler or manufacturer; however, you cannot discharge any consumer or 1.4G fireworks in the State of Ohio.

You must transport all fireworks purchased in Ohio out of the state within 48 hours of the purchase.

The only items that can be used in Ohio are designated "trick and novelty" which smoke, pop, and/or sparkle.

In Ohio, use of 1.4G fireworks (fire crackers, bottle rockets, etc.) is illegal. (R.C. 3743.65 (B))

3. Who can shoot fireworks in Ohio?

Only a licensed fireworks exhibitor can discharge fireworks in Ohio. Those interested in becoming a licensed exhibitor must apply with the Bureau of Testing and Registration (T&R), pass an exam, and complete a background check. Applicants must submit a letter of proficiency in the handling and discharging of fireworks from an Ohio licensed exhibitor or possess a certified copy of a fireworks license from another state.

4. What is the process for holding a fireworks exhibition?

An exhibition permit is required for all firework exhibitions, which is issued by the local fire chief, police chief or county sheriff. The permit specifies the date, time, location, and other parameters of how the exhibition will be executed. Applicants must be a licensed fireworks exhibitor, and the fireworks must be purchased from an Ohio licensed wholesaler, manufacturer, or out-of-state shipper. Authorities inspect the exhibition site before, during and after the exhibition. Federal, state and local laws and regulations must be followed.

The exhibition must also comply with the Ohio Fire Code and the safety provisions outlined in the Ohio Revised Code. During the shoot, only registered employees and certified fire safety officials are allowed within the discharge site.

5. Are there penalties for failing to follow Ohio's fireworks laws?

Yes. Most first-time violations are first-degree misdemeanors, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail. Illegal fireworks can be confiscated by law enforcement authorities. Violations include failing to transport fireworks out of state within the specified time period and discharging fireworks.

6. Where are there more resources?

View the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) or refer to the 2020 Fireworks Redbook (PDF) for answers to more fireworks questions. Contact T&R for more information about licensing requirements or exhibition permits.

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1. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Please contact the City's Human Resources Department at 216-475-1829.

2. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Contact the City's Service Department at 216-475-3373 or you contact Kimble directly at 800-201-0005.  

3. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Please contact the City's Building Department at 216-475-3835.

4. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Please view the City's Agenda Center to view upcoming meetings. 

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1. If my neighbor is causing problems, what can I do?

If one of the parties has broken the law, criminal charges may be warranted. If no infraction of the law occurred, the parties are advised to obtain independent counsel.

2. My spouse abuses me. What can I do?

First, and foremost, call the Police at 216-475-4551. The Law Department will follow up in appropriate cases with prosecution, which may also include a temporary protection order.

3. If I am injured on City property or a city street, what should I do?

Make a Police Report or make a report to the individual in charge of the facility in which you were injured. Additionally, obtain two quotes that specify the amount of damages suffered. Your claim will be processed through the Law Department and with the City’s insurance carrier.

4. If I have a question about an ordinance, what should I do?

Call the Law Department at 216-475-0824 and someone will assist you in finding an answer to your question.

5. If I have a question about a traffic ticket or citation I receive, whom do I call?

Contact The Garfield Heights Municipal Court at 216-475-1900.

6. If I witness a crime, whom do I call?

Call the Garfield Heights Police Department at 216-475-4551 at once.

7. If I want to find out what legislation is coming up for a vote at the next council meeting, how do I check?

The agenda and proposed legislation for Council meetings are posted on the City Council page.

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1. How do I obtain my vehicle after it has been impounded?

The owner of the vehicle will need to come to the Garfield Heights Police Department with proof of ownership of the vehicle, either the title or registration and identification. They will be given a tow release form which they will need to then take to Interstate Towing and pay the following fees:

• $95 - Standard Tow
• $125 - Flat Bed Tow
• $25 - Administration fee
• $15 - Per day storage

• Interstate Towing

  22151 Aurora Rd.

  Bedford Hts., OH  44146

  Interstate Towing can also be contacted by calling 216-475-0099.

2. How do I pay for a ticket?

You can pay a ticket that you do not want to contest Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm at the Garfield Heights Municipal Court in the Clerk of Court's Office on the 2nd floor.

3. Who do I call to report a suspected drug house?

Call the Police Department at 216-475-4551 and ask for the Officer-in-Charge. You do not have to leave your name and number.

Please have as much information as possible including:

• Address
• Time/day of most activity
• Where on the property transactions are made (side door, alley, etc.)

If there is a crime in progress, report it to 911.

4. What should I do if I see a crime being committed?

Call 911. The person answering will ask you about the type of emergency and its location.

5. Are people allowed to solicit without approval?

No, a person or person(s) that are looking to solicit within the City of Garfield Heights needs to request a license or Certificate of Registration through the Building Department, which is located at:
Garfield Heights Civic Center
5407 Turney Road
Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125

However, persons going door to door that are only passing out informational pamphlets do not need a permit.  

6. What do I need to do when I hear the tornado siren?

The siren is activated to warn the citizens that the National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Warning in Cuyahoga County. You should proceed to the basement of your house and tune in to a local radio or television station for further information. If you do not have a basement, then you should take shelter in an interior closet.

You should avoid calling the Police or Fire Department for information about the siren.

The siren is tested on the first Saturday of the month at noon for one minute.

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1. How often does the City pick-up rubbish?

Residential rubbish is picked up weekly.

2. I've seen people scavenging through resident's rubbish, is this allowed?

No one is permitted to remove or take rubbish/recyclables deposited on the tree lawn for collection by the city, per Codified Ordinance Sections 759.01 and 759.99.

A violation of this law is a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.

3. People often throw trash and other paper items on the ground. What can I do about it?

Littering in our community is a serious problem. Section 527.02 of the Codified Ordinances reads:

No person shall throw or deposit litter in or upon any street, sidewalk, or other public place within the city except in public receptacles, in authorized private receptacles for collection, or in official city dumps.

Violation of this ordinance is a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.