Council adds two parks to approved city fireworks sites and codifies event exceptions

The Hurricane City Council approved Ordinance 2026‑07 on April 2 to amend Title 4, Chapter 11, concerning the discharge of fireworks. Staff told the council the amendment adds two parks where the city can discharge fireworks during approved time slots and clarifies exceptions for city‑sponsored events.

Staff summarized the changes as: (1) adding Grandpa's Pond Park as a permitted discharge site effective this year, and (2) adding Gateway Park as a permitted site effective when that park opens (presented as July 2027). The ordinance also includes exceptions that previously appeared only in proclamations—staff said codifying those exceptions ensures the city can continue authorized displays for Peach Days, homecoming and similar events while maintaining annual proclamation oversight tied to fire‑district guidance.

Council members asked whether the city regulates fireworks sales (staff noted sales are governed by state law) and whether the ordinance would remain in effect beyond a single year; staff said the ordinance stands until changed and that annual proclamations will set specific allowable dates and locations in consultation with the fire district.

The council approved the ordinance by roll call and then approved a related annual proclamation allowing the city to set dates each year. The mayor and council characterized the changes as clarification rather than a broad policy shift.

No public controversy arose during the deliberation. Staff will publish the adopted ordinance and proclamation schedule in the city calendar and coordinate dates with the fire district.