La Crosse Police and Fire Partner for Fireworks Safety

Published on June 11, 2026

Cityoflacrosse.org/fireworks displayed over a fireworks display with the La Crosse Police and Fire Department logos on either side at the bottom..

The City of La Crosse Police and Fire Departments are partnering on a summer-long educational campaign to remind residents about firework safety and local ordinances. Throughout June, July, and August, illegal fireworks consistently cause property damage, injuries, and severe distress to many in our community. 

“Let’s keep our summer celebrations safe and fun for everyone. Sudden loud explosions can trigger severe distress and traumatic memories for vulnerable individuals, including military veterans, those living with dementia or autism, to name a few. These sudden shocks severely disrupt the well-being of many in our community, including family pets,” says Police Chief Shawn Kudron. “The Police Department wants everyone to enjoy the summer and holiday celebration, but please, look out for one another.” 

Per Wisconsin State Statute, 167.10(3)(a): No person may possess or use fireworks without a user's permit from the mayor of the city, president of the village or chairperson of the town in which the possession or use is to occur or from a person designated by the mayor, president, or chairperson to issue a user's permit.

In the City of La Crosse, it is illegal to use fireworks that explode or leave the ground. The citation for shooting off illegal fireworks in the City of La Crosse is $502.00 (Section 18-102 of the City of La Crosse Municipal Codes). The table below outlines legal and illegal fireworks. The City of La Crosse only issues a permit to professional outfits. The permit you get from the stand-up tent outside the city's limits allows you to possess fireworks but holds no legal value once you shoot them off.  

“We know fireworks are part of summer fun, but when mishandled or illegal, they cause devastating and irreversible harm,” says Fire Department Chief Jeff Schott. “I urge everyone to use caution when using legal fireworks.” According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in 2024, there were eleven reported deaths and an estimated 14,700 fireworks-related injuries, both an increase from 2023 (eight reported deaths and an estimated 9,700 fireworks-related injuries). “Please celebrate safely.”

Here are a few safety tips when using legal fireworks:

  • Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire or mishap.
  • If you use legal fireworks, once it is done burning, place it in a bucket of water to cool.
  • Young children should not handle fireworks. 
  • Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.
  • Make sure you are only using fireworks that are legal in your area.
  • Do not use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Chief Kudron and Chief Schott wish the entire community a safe and enjoyable summer. The safest way to celebrate is by leaving the fireworks to the professionals. Thank you for helping keep our community safe. 

Information on impacts on others, laws regarding fireworks and safety tips.

The image is blue on the left side and red on the right side. In the top left corner is The City of La Crosse Police Department logo which has a picture of the State of Wisconsin with a star showing where La Crosse would be, along with wavy lines both on the bottom and on the top with a flag. In the top right corner is a golden firework burst with smaller bursts to the left and right. In the middle of the image are two lit sparklers with bright yellow sparks. In the middle of the image is two lists of fireworks that are Legal and Illegal.

Infographic from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission detailing fireworks injuries and deaths for 2024, reporting 14,700 ER treatments and 11 deaths. It highlights that 37% of injuries are burns, with the head and face being the most affected body parts (22%), followed by hands and fingers (30%). The infographic also provides safety tips for fireworks usage.

Contact Information

La Crosse Police Department 

(608) 782-7575

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