Utica Council revises fireworks ordinance to align with state regulations

The Utica City Council meeting on May 13, 2025, focused on significant updates to local ordinances regarding the placement of portable toilets and the regulation of fireworks.

The council discussed amendments to the existing regulations for portable toilets, particularly in residential areas. The proposed changes included establishing a minimum distance of 10 feet from structures and adjusting the distance from property lines. Council members debated the appropriateness of these distances, with some suggesting that 10 feet would be a reasonable standard for both structures and parcel lines. The council ultimately agreed on these amendments, which aim to balance accessibility and community concerns about aesthetics and safety.

In addition, the council addressed the city's fireworks ordinance, which needed to align with recent changes in state law. The current ordinance was deemed too restrictive compared to state regulations, prompting a review. The council proposed to amend the ordinance to reflect state guidelines, including updated hours for discharging fireworks. However, further discussion revealed the need for additional amendments to clarify certain provisions. As a result, the council decided to postpone the final vote on the fireworks ordinance until the next meeting to allow for further review and adjustments.

These discussions highlight the council's commitment to updating local regulations to better serve the community while ensuring safety and compliance with state laws. The next steps will involve finalizing the fireworks ordinance and implementing the new portable toilet regulations.