Council approves first reading of fireworks ordinance allowing consumer displays with fire-department suspension authority

The Lennox City Council approved the first reading of a draft fireworks ordinance that would permit consumer fireworks in Lennox under the definitions in South Dakota code, while prohibiting discharge on city-owned property without authorization. Staff said the fire and EMS committee reviewed the ordinance and that the city administrator would be empowered to suspend fireworks during dry or hazardous conditions on the fire chief’s recommendation.

Council members asked whether individuals could shoot fireworks from private driveways and clarified that only public displays would require a permit. The council confirmed consumer fireworks sold by retail vendors that meet the South Dakota definition would be allowable on private property within allowable hours. The draft ordinance uses midnight as an allowable end time, following the practice of several comparable towns.

Fire department concerns centered on post-event cleanup and safe disposal of fireworks remnants and on ensuring residents understood safe disposal practices. Police staff noted that permitted fireworks discharge that occurs within allowed hours cannot generally be cited as a noise violation, though discharges outside allowable hours remain enforceable. Council members discussed providing public-safety messaging in advance of holidays and possibly placing temporary disposal bins, though staff noted disposal sites could raise liability concerns.

The ordinance passed on first reading by voice vote. Staff will bring back any suggested language clarifications and the ordinance for future readings as required by local procedure.