The Board of Supervisors approved amendments to the Johnson County Fireworks Ordinance, to enhance safety and compliance measures for public fireworks displays in unincorporated areas.

Some of the changes in Ordinance No. 10-24-24-01 include:

• Expanded definitions of terms used in the ordinance, including clarification on what qualifies as an “operator” and what training is required.
• Specific dates and time periods added to identify when residents can use consumer fireworks (such as bottle rockets, firecrackers, etc.) without a permit:
  • July 3 through July 5 between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.
  • Dec. 31 between 7 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.; and
  • Jan. 1 between 12 midnight and 12:30 a.m.
• Minimum horizontal separation distance requirements are defined to increase safety and reduce hazards that may result in damage to surrounding structures or people in the area.
• The number of days required to submit permit applications before the fireworks display takes place was changed from 14 days to 21 days.

Additional information can be found at https://www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/fireworks or contact the Board Office at 319-356-6000.