What are fireworks?
Any composition or device for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, deflagration, or detonation, and that meets the definition of Consumer Fireworks or Display Fireworks as set forth in NFPA 1123.
Legal Novelty Fireworks
In the City of Marshalltown, the only legal novelty fireworks are Sparklers, Caps, and Snakes. All other fireworks are prohibited from being discharged in the City limits. Violation of the fireworks ban is punishable by a fine of up to $855 (City Code 130.018 – Fireworks)
All other fireworks require a permit that must be applied for through the City of Marshalltown (24 North Center Street).
City Code 130.018 – Fireworks
(A) The use of consumer fireworks and display fireworks within the city is prohibited, except as provided herein.
(B) The City Council may, upon application in writing, grant a permit for display of fireworks when the Council is satisfied that the display of fireworks will be handled by a competent operator with appropriate safeguards.
(C) It shall also be unlawful for any property owner, or any person in possession of a property, to knowingly permit the use of consumer fireworks or display fireworks on the owner’s property within city limits in violation of this section. (2013 Code, § 21-54) (Ord. 14971, passed 3-13-2018)
(D) (1) A violation of § 130.018 of this chapter shall be a simple misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $250.
(2) Any person violating the provision of § 130.018(C) of this chapter shall, upon conviction, be punished by a penalty as provided in § 10.999(A) of this code of ordinances. (2013 Code, § 21-54)
Fireworks Fire and Injury Facts
- Fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in 2018, including 1,900 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 17,100 outside and other fires. These fires caused five deaths, 46 civilian injuries, and $105 million in direct property damage.
- In 2018, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 9,100 people for fireworks-related injuries; half of those injuries were to the extremities and 34% were to the eye or other parts of the head. Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for more than one-third (36%) of the estimated 2018 injuries. These injury estimates were obtained or derived from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2018 Fireworks Annual Report by Yongling Tu and Jason Ng.
Prevention
- Never leave children unattended.
- Never allow children to play with fireworks.
- Read and follow all fireworks warnings and instructions.
- Have a bucket of water nearby to place the sparklers into.
- Watch all clothing.
- Leave the big fireworks to professionals.
Discharge of fireworks is strictly prohibited within Marshalltown city limits.
AUTHORITY: Captain Christopher Jones (cjones@marshalltown-ia.gov or 641.754.5758)