The Snoqualmie City Council has approved a change in the city’s fireworks rules that makes it easier for police to crack down on the use of illegal firecrackers.

Just in time for the summer fireworks season, the change, approved at the city’s last council meeting, June 9, allows police to issue a civil infraction to people who use illegal fireworks. The infraction is similar to a speeding ticket, and costs offenders about $120.

The infraction approach replaces a former criminal prosecution for firecracker malfeasance.

The change is meant to make fireworks enforcement easier, fairer, and simpler, Councilman Bob Jeans said.

The whole point is simply to encourage people to use legal fireworks.

The city will see how well the new rules work this year, and if need be, come back next year and add more teeth to the fireworks laws.