New Year's Eve fireworks legal in Mat-Su

ANCHORAGE - Mat-Su residents will legally be able to shoot off fireworks in the borough on New Year's Eve for the first time in 42 years.

Officials say fireworks will be allowed between 6 p.m. and 1 a.m.

The change applies to New Year's Eve only. It was sponsored by former borough assemblyman Pete Houston of Palmer before he left office.

Fireworks will not be allowed in certain areas, including within 1,250 feet of health care or assisted living facilities or any church, school or library.

Fireworks also may not be set off within 500 feet of gas stations or businesses where flammable fuels are stored.