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Council debates fireworks restrictions, directs staff to clarify map and language
Summary
Council discussed a proposed ordinance to limit fireworks in dry or hazardous areas during state-authorized dates; members asked for a clearer map, carve-outs for city events, and clarified the constraints of state law, then continued the item to allow staff to revise the language.
City counsel McKay Murdock presented a draft ordinance to restrict fireworks discharge in areas with dry vegetation, wildland-urban interface zones and other high-risk locations even during the dates state law permits fireworks. Murdock said the draft draws on prior ordinances and aims to limit discharges consistent with state law while protecting fire-prone areas.
Council members questioned the map-based boundary descriptions in the draft and urged attaching a clear map. Members also discussed whether the ordinance should allow city-sponsored displays or designate specific community parks for permitted fireworks uses, and whether prohibiting fireworks within 50 feet of structures would effectively ban typical in-street use. Staff said state law requires allowing fireworks on certain dates, so the draft seeks to limit their use only where city-defined hazard conditions apply. Several council members suggested producing a map and clearer language and returning the item to a future meeting; the council voted to continue the item so staff can refine the ordinance and prepare a delineated map.
