Success in two days in Bucks County! 

Bucks Burn Ban Resolution is the original resolution copy.

After several conversations w/ elected officials here is an update for some areas in Bucks County that have burn ban in place. This effort lasted two days and  the final decision was in the hands of Fire Marshal but the officials and their staff was instrumental in conveying the importance of the festival and fireworks and finding accomodations for our community to celebrate.

Bucks County Fire Marshal wished the community a very Happy Diwali and clarified that fireworks were not banned.

 

 

 

 

Special thanks to Rep Brennan for leading this effort alongside Senator Santarsiero, and Commissioner Harvey! We appreciate you all and your support for our very important festival! 

Chester and Montgomery County PA 

Chester and Montgomery Counties have also agreed to allow fireworks as long as they follow municipality guidelines and ensure safe procedures. We will make this petition status as "success" once we see written guidelines from Montgomery County. 

Original petition -

For us, the Hindu community in Pennsylvania, Diwali is more than just a festival. It is an essential part of our culture and religious practice, during which we traditionally light fireworks. The recent state-level recognition of Diwali as a holiday was a deeply appreciated gesture and signifies a respect for our practices. However, the current ban on open fires—while essential for mitigating environmental impact and preventing hazardous situations—is conflicting with our religious requirement to light firecrackers on this auspicious night. 

Given the cultural and religious significance of fireworks during Diwali, we propose a modification of the ban. This proposal supports the temporary lifting of the ban on Diwali night, primarily for safe types of fireworks such as sparklers, with additional safety measures like ensuring these firecrackers are lit on concrete patios instead of grass and always in the presence of a water source, to prevent any undue fire incidents.

In the United States, it’s a common practice to alter law enforcement on special occasions. For instance, noise ordinances are often relaxed for New Year’s Eve. This situation is no different. Respect and tolerance for all religions is a fundamental principle of our society.

We believe this is possible without endangering our neighborhoods or violating the spirit of environmental responsibility. Help us maintain our traditions and celebrate our culture without restrictions. Sign the petition to request the Pennsylvania State Government to reconsider the ban on firecrackers during Diwali 2024.

Our ask- Lift the ban for Diwali celebration days of Oct 31 and Nov 1 to accommodate small firecrackers at homes on blacktop and concrete surfaces. Allow  the Hindu community who celebrate the festival with lamps and sparklers at the very least and update the resolution to reflect this allowance.