City Rules & Reminders for Holiday Weekend

Planning to hit the water or shoot off fireworks this weekend? Here's a quick guide to key Traverse City regulations that could come in handy over the holiday:

> No fires are allowed on any city beaches.
> Setting off fireworks is prohibited on public land, including city parks, beaches and roads. Fireworks are permitted on private property the day before, the day of and the day after a national holiday (ie, July 3-5) between 8am-1am. Fireworks are banned from 1am-8am. Floating lanterns are prohibited within city limits.
> Boaters: No boats are allowed on shore within 50 feet of any swim area. The area stretching from Clinch Park beach to the Boardman River mouth is a no-wake zone. Boaters must be 1,000 feet or more from fireworks barges. Boaters are also required to adhere to Coast Guard life jacket regulations on Grand Traverse Bay and the Boardman River.
> Jumping or diving from city bridges is prohibited.
> The Union Street Dam is a low-head dam. Please abide by posted warnings and stay away from the area while on tubes, kayaks, canoes, etc.
> Alcohol is banned in the following city parks: Clinch Park Beach, Hannah Park, Lay Park, American Legion Park, Hickory Hills, F&M Park and the Jay Smith Walkway. Alcohol is also banned in the Open Space during the National Cherry Festival (with the exception of the festival beverage pavilion and any festival wine-tasting events) and Traverse City Film Festival. Beer and wine in non-glass containers is permitted in other city park and beach areas; however, liquor is prohibited in all parks. Please take any containers and/or trash with you when you leave a park or beach.
> Want to receive a text or phone alert in case of an emergency (such as extreme weather, evacuation notices or terrorism threats)? Sign up for a free CodeRED account here.

Many local law enforcement agencies will also have extra patrols out this weekend specifically targeting drunk drivers. Residents and visitors are encouraged to celebrate responsibly. Happy Fourth!