Poll: How Much Of A Problem Are Illegal Fireworks In Wyoming?

It's fireworks season again in Wyoming.

And there is little question that illegal or not, a lot of folks will be setting off fireworks where they are banned, as they seem to do every year.

In Cheyenne, for example, most fireworks other than sparklers or novelty items are illegal for personal use inside city limits. you can read more about legal and illegal fireworks in Cheyenne here. But despite a likely fine of $225 and confiscation of the fireworks, it's a safe bet that the sight and sound of illegal fireworks will be a common occurrence again this year in Wyoming's capital city.

Cheyenne Police Department spokeswoman Alex Farkas says under Wyoming law, violators could be fined up to $750 but adds "that rarely happens." Farkas also says the CPD will have extra officers out on the streets again this year to catch fireworks violators.

In past years some media accounts have likened Cheyenne on July 4 to a "war zone," despite the efforts of local law enforcement to crack down on the practice.

It's worth mentioning that a public fireworks display will be held at Frontier Park in Cheyenne on the evening of the 4th. This year's display is designed to be seen from across the city.

Likewise across most of the state, fireworks are illegal, with special concerns in many areas this year because of drought conditions and high fire danger.

Fireworks are illegal on public lands across Wyoming, including those administered by the Bureau of Land Management.

So what do you think? Are illegal fireworks a big problem in Wyoming? Do we need stiffer penalties, or is the whole thing just a lost cause?

Or do you think there is something contradictory in not allowing people the freedom to make their own decisions on a day that celebrates freedom?

Take our poll and give us your opinion.