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Urbandale council adopts first reading of fireworks ordinance to mirror new state rules; private‑property restrictions emphasized
Summary
The council approved the first reading of Ordinance 2025-12 to align Urbandale code with recent state changes allowing consumer fireworks on specified hours; police said fireworks must be used on private property with permission, video can support enforcement and fines remain steep for violations.
Urbandale — The Urbandale City Council approved the first reading June 17 of Ordinance 2025-12 to align the city’s fireworks regulations with changes in Iowa state law that specify allowable hours and days for consumer fireworks.
Police Chief Rob (presenting) said the ordinance mirrors state law hours: July 3 (9 a.m.–10 p.m.) and July 4 (9 a.m.–11 p.m.), with a statute that also permits fireworks on Dec. 31 under defined conditions. “We’re mirroring the state law,” the chief said, and staff added a provision making clear fireworks are allowed only on private property or on private property where the property owner has given permission.
Enforcement and outreach: Chief Rob said the department will emphasize keeping fireworks off public property, parks and school grounds and will focus enforcement on areas where public gatherings have led to unsafe conditions in prior years. He said residents who witness illegal lighting should be willing to be witnesses; however, video evidence that clearly shows the person lighting fireworks can be used as probable cause for a citation. The department also plans social‑media outreach and public education before the July 4 period.
Fines and practice: The chief noted civil penalties and criminal citations remain available; he said the ordinance references a fine amount of $773 for violations and that officers will respond to complaints outside permitted hours or when fireworks create hazards.
Council action: Councilmember Boddy moved to approve the ordinance on first reading and Councilmember Carberry Montgomery seconded; the motion passed. Staff planned second and third readings for the July 1 meeting and said education and enforcement messaging will ramp up before the July 3–4 period.
Why it matters: The ordinance change is procedural — it aligns local code with state law — but police and council members flagged public‑safety concerns about fireworks in parks and at public gatherings, and they emphasized that private property limits and witness evidence standards will guide enforcement.
