The Carroll City Council fast-tracked an ordinance change at last night’s (Monday) meeting to adjust fireworks limitations within city limits. Police Chief Brad Burke says the state code that allows communities to restrict their use has changed, and Carroll’s ordinance no longer aligns with state law.
Senate File (SF) 303, which was signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds earlier this year, provides specific windows where anybody in the state is allowed to detonate consumer-grade fireworks, regardless of local regulations.
Burke notes that the city’s moratorium on fireworks in Carroll, outside of the specified dates and times, would still be in place and could result in fines for those found in violation. At-Large Councilwoman JJ Schreck points out the council has little say in the matter, and they are essentially forced to make the change by the legislature. The council voted unanimously to approve the first reading of the amendment, waived the second and third readings, and adopted the ordinance. So again, under the new regulations, fireworks are allowed statewide, at a minimum, on July 3 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., July 4 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Dec. 31 from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. Regulations vary by city and county, so check with local authorities before lighting the fuse.
