Manchester council adopts fireworks ordinance to align with new state law

The Manchester City Council voted unanimously to adopt an updated fireworks ordinance that brings the city code into line with Iowa Senate File 303, the council said. The ordinance change removes local prohibitions on consumer fireworks discharge during the dates and hours specified by the state law.

City staff told the council the state law prevents cities from enforcing a local ban on fireworks on July 3, July 4 and Dec. 31 during the statutory time windows. Staff and several council members clarified that residents do not need a special permit to discharge consumer fireworks; separate rules and permitting requirements apply to large commercial displays, which are handled as commercial events and carry their own safety and insurance requirements.

During discussion, council members asked staff to confirm the distinction between residential and commercial-grade fireworks and whether emergency fire marshal enforcement applies during local burn bans; staff said violations of the chapter are reported to the state fire marshal and that the city has no authority to prohibit residential discharge on the specified dates. A councilmember stated that commercial-grade displays usually involve shells 2–4 inches or larger and are treated differently under state and local rules.

The council voted to waive the first and second readings and adopt the ordinance on final consideration. The motion carried on a roll call with all members voting yes. The ordinance will be published in accordance with city procedures.