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Board approves Absolute Fireworks permit at 3216 Memorial Blvd; applicant cites past theft issues at prior site
Summary
The Board approved Z26011, allowing Absolute Fireworks (applicant Julie Smith) to operate a 30-by-60 fireworks tent at 3216 Memorial Blvd from June 28–July 5, 2026 (10 a.m.–10 p.m.), subject to standard tent, safety and inspection conditions; the applicant said she previously stopped using the site after thefts linked to a trailer park that is no longer there.
The City of Murfreesboro Board of Zoning Appeals on April 22 approved application Z26011, allowing Absolute Fireworks, represented by Julie Smith, to operate a 30-by-60 tent at 3216 Memorial Boulevard for the July selling season, June 28–July 5, 2026, between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
City staff (Mister Anthony) reviewed the application and recommended approval. Staff said the site is approximately 235 feet from the nearest fire hydrant and about 250 feet from the nearest fuel source, meets the zoning standards for temporary vendors in the CL zoning district, and will require a tent permit, flame-resistance certification, temporary power permit and electrical inspection before opening. Staff noted the site was previously used for a fireworks tent from 2009 through 2012 but was discontinued due to merchandise theft.
Julie Smith, the applicant, told the board she stopped returning to the site after thefts associated with a nearby trailer park but is now returning because those trailers are no longer on the property. "24 years selling fireworks in Murfreesboro," she told the board, citing a long history of local seasonal sales.
Chair Young opened the public hearing; no members of the public spoke. A motion to approve Z26011 pending staff comments was moved and seconded. The roll call recorded five ayes and the Board approved the request.
The approval is conditioned on the applicant obtaining necessary permits (tent, electrical), providing flame-resistance certification, keeping required fire suppression equipment on-site, not detonating fireworks on-site, posting relevant city and state ordinances at the tent, and removing temporary power poles and all temporary facilities within 14 days after permit expiration.
