Fireworks are illegal within the city limits of Rapid City and the wider Black Hills Fire Protection District, but a recent increase in reckless gun discharges has prompted authorities to clamp down.
This decision was initially made to protect the sensitive environment from potential forest fires.
However, Rapid City mayor Jason Salamun said there will be no leeway for fireworks this year.
“With New Years’ Eve upon us we know fireworks are very popular, but not here in Rapid City, and we will take it very seriously. You will not get a warning - you will get a ticket," Salamun said. "Know that will not be tolerated, there’s other places to do that more safely than in city limits.”
This comes amid a local uptick in reckless discharges of firearms in Rapid City. Namely, a November accidental discharge that killed a 16-year-old and a firing of over one-dozen shots toward a popular Rapid City shopping center December 27.