Fire Chief Zolondek on using consumer fireworks in town: Just be a good neighbor
A city ordinance, which was amended recently by the council, governs the use of consumer fireworks in Cedar Falls.
City ordinance 16-24 spells out the designated dates, times, locations where you can use your fireworks, and the noise they generate, among other things.
Permitted time frames: The ordinance allows first- and second-class consumer fireworks within the city limits on July 3 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and also on July 4 and July 5 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Likewise, the ordinance permits usage on Dec. 31 between 9 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. on Jan. 1.
Permitted locations for using consumer fireworks:
Using fireworks during permitted time frames shall only occur on the user’s owned real property or on property where the owner has given prior permission.
Public property is off limits unless a permit has been obtained: The ordinance states that consumer fireworks are not allowed on city-owned property, public sidewalks, right of ways, streets, parks, or parking lots.
Cleanup is your responsibility: The ordinance says that users must remove all consumer fireworks debris.
How loud can you get?
The use of consumer fireworks that mimic display fireworks or rise to 150 decibels or to 210 feet elevation is banned from use at all times within city limits unless the user has obtained a permit.
Residents may enjoy novelty fireworks including party poppers, snappers, toy smoke devices, snakes and glow worms, and wire sparklers year-round.
Consequences of ordinance violations:
In a press release, the city said that “to help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all, the City of Cedar Falls will be conducting a zero-tolerance policy on violators.” The same is stated in the fireworks ordinance.
Those who violate the fireworks ordinance with the use of fireworks outside of the designated time and dates or interfere with enforcement shall be guilty of a simple misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than $250.00.
If you need to report a violation, call Public Safety at (319) 291-2515
Fire Chief Zolondek: Just be a good neighbor
Cedar Falls Fire Chief John Zolondek told The Cedar Falls News Hub citizens are generally respectful of the times and dates for usage of consumer fireworks in town.
“The one thing I always tell people is, first of all, just be a good neighbor,” he said.
The safety guidance below about how to stay safe when using fireworks is culled from a press release the city shared and also based on an interview with Chief Zolondek:
- Establish a safety perimeter
- Have a water source nearby
- Avoid lighting them in dry grass or trees
- Do not wear loose clothing around fireworks
- Be aware of windy conditions
- It is prohibited to direct fireworks in any direction other than the user’s owned real property or the property where the owner has given prior consent
- Never allow children to play or ignite fireworks
- Do not try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not been ignited fully
- Light fireworks one at a time then move back quickly
- Soak fireworks in water before throwing them in the trash
- Remember that fireworks are not toys
- Do not direct them or throw them at another person or pet
- Always point them away from yourself
- Ensure that all members of your family are educated in fireworks safety
The chief said safety is a priority, so he recommends having a hose out, just in case.
He said used fireworks should not be thrown in the garbage while they’re still hot, because they pose a fire hazard.
“When you get done, soak those shells in a 5-gallon bucket and then the next day, take them out and put them in a plastic sack and then throw them in the garbage,” he added.
He also advised a neighborly approach.
“Just be a good neighbor, so if you wanna have fun, just do it kind of nicely, and in the best manner, you can maybe give your neighbors a heads up.
“If any debris are going into your neighbor’s yard, take care of them.
“You’re still not gonna make everybody happy, I know that, but just to try and be a good neighbor a little bit.”