SKANEATELES - The warmer weather sparks start of the fireworks season, and the town board is debating a measure that would provide more guidelines for these displays.

People can state their opinions on a proposed law that would limit fireworks displays in an attempt to improve safety and become aligned with the state's regulations during a public hearing scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 5, at Skaneateles Town Hall.

Last month, the town began exploring the issues of fireworks displays after code officer Debbie Williams told the town board that Skaneateles' policies didn't match the state's rules.

Town attorney Patrick Sardino then drafted a law he said will “set forth a standard permit application procedure that contains some of the provisions that are contained in New York law.”

Williams questioned whether the town had the authority to approve fireworks exhibits for events if there were questions whether they are public or private.

The state does not give power to municipalities to permit private displays, such as a wedding or benefits people pay to attend.

One provision states: “The applications for the public display of fireworks shall be made by an authorized representatives of a municipality, fair association, amusement park, or organization of individuals.”

The proposed regulation also gives the town the opportunity to include provisions that match its goals, such as maintaining the quality of Skaneateles Lake.

One measure states people have to position fireworks so the residue from the explosions doesn't fall into the lake.

Councilor Ellen Kulik sponsored the bill for introduction during the May 1 board meeting.

“I do think we get a lot of applications and I think we need to have a process with standards ... in accordance with state law,” she said.

The proposed requirements would set limits on how close fireworks can be shot from buildings or roads, as well as telephone lines.

The town has received more applications for fireworks displays each year for the past three years at least.

The proposal also raises the price for an application fee from $25 to $100.

In detail

Here's a sample of provisions included in the proposed fireworks display resolution that will go to a public hearing on Thursday, June 5.

• The point at which the fireworks are to be fired from shall be at lease 200 feet from the nearest permanent building, public highway or railroad or other means of travel.

• The point at which the fireworks are to be fired from shall be at least 50 feet from the nearest above-ground telephone or telegraph line, tree or other overhead obstruction.

• Under no circumstance shall a fireworks permit be issued for private parties, private displays or to limited audiences events.

• Prior to the issuance of a permit, the application shall provide a bond in an amount not less than $5,000 conditioned for the payment of all damages which may be caused to a person or persons or property by reason of the display and arising from any act of the applicant.

• The audience shall be restrained behind lines at least 150 feet from the point at which the fireworks are discharged and only persons in active charge of the display shall be allowed inside the limit.

• Any applicant for a permit pursuant to this chapter that is denied a permit may appeal such denial to the Town Board of Skaneateles. The town board shall only consider the application that was brought before the code enforcement officer and the written denial which is being appealed.